Thursday, 19 March 2026

 Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Minister for Corrections, Minister for Youth Justice) (09:49): Today I rise to recognise and celebrate Newroz, the Kurdish New Year. Across Victoria Kurdish communities are gathering this weekend to mark this important occasion. Newroz is more than a celebration; it is a powerful symbol of freedom, identity and the enduring strength of a people who have faced generations of hardship. But as we celebrate, we also reflect. Many in our community are watching events unfold across the Middle East, with deep concerns across Kurdistan and particularly the city of Erbil. For many of my constituents this is not distant news. It is family. It is loved ones. It is deeply personal.

Last year I had the privilege of visiting Erbil for the landmark Kurdistan National Prayer Breakfast, a trailblazing event hosted by Prime Minister Masrour Barzani. It is a city rich in history and pride and stands as an important centre for coexistence, religious freedom and democratic aspiration in the region. Here in Victoria Kurdish Australians continue to contribute to our state and strengthen our communities while preserving their heritage and connection to culture. That is why events and moments like Newroz matter. They bring people together, they reaffirm identity and they remind us of the universal values we all share – peace, dignity and hope for a better future. To everyone celebrating, Newroz pîroz bê – happy Newroz. May the year ahead bring peace, stability and prosperity for all.