On a different note, may I also bring to the attention of this chamber something that is very difficult for so many. That is the conflict in Israel and Gaza. I have met with members of the Jewish community and also members of the Muslim community, and these differences—the anguish on both sides—is very real. What I do say is that it is incumbent on all of us as members of parliament to think about the social cohesion in this country. We hope for lasting peace and the protection of innocent lives.
Ms BURNEY (Barton—Minister for Indigenous Australians) (09:50): It has been a challenging year for Australia on many levels. Of course, there was the referendum, which had a difficult outcome for millions of Australians. But the other point that I wanted to make is that the government is working very hard to ease the cost of living, which, of course, is the No. 1 issue in this country for people who are fearing their next bill. We are delivering $23 billion in targeted relief, while not adding to inflation.
Investments in health and child care are making a difference in Barton. The tripling of the bulk-billing incentive has been a shot in the arm for our community’s health sector. Over 67,000 pensioners, concession cardholders and children and their families will find it easier and cheaper to see their doctor in Barton. The government’s investment in more affordable child care for Barton families came into effect in July. In just three months, the cost of child care in Sydney has dropped by 10 per cent and there are almost 10,000 children under five in Barton. This is very welcome news. Affordable, high-quality childcare education sets a child up for the rest of their life.
On a different note, may I also bring to the attention of this chamber something that is very difficult for so many. That is the conflict in Israel and Gaza. I have met with members of the Jewish community and also members of the Muslim community, and these differences—the anguish on both sides—is very real. What I do say is that it is incumbent on all of us as members of parliament to think about the social cohesion in this country. We hope for lasting peace and the protection of innocent lives. I wish every single person in Barton a happy and safe festive season and success and health in the new year.