Thursday, 20 November 2025

 Rachel PAYNE (South-Eastern Metropolitan) (09:46): The week before last I had the privilege of attending Wellsprings for Women in my electorate to watch Story Is Connection, a performance created and performed by migrant and refugee women. Through movement, speech and song these women shared their lived experiences of trying to find meaningful employment in Australia. Their performance highlighted some of the barriers and systemic disadvantage they have come up against throughout their journeys, from racism, harmful gender norms, isolation and violence to civil and human rights violations. Yet within these struggles their story spoke to great strength, resilience and compassion. Community connections made at organisations like Wellsprings for Women ensure migrant women are supported and encouraged to gain the skills and experience to participate, particularly in the workforce. When I was asked to reflect on the performance, the word ‘pride’ came to mind, pride in their resilience and unwavering commitment to be the best they can be and pride in their achievements and bravery. Storytelling like this allows us all to deepen our understanding of the world, creating connection. I thank Wellsprings for Women for platforming their voices and the fabulous performers for sharing their stories, stories that are too often unheard in our society.