Exactly one year ago today I gave my maiden speech, and I would like to congratulate our newest member, the member for Hinchinbrook, for giving his yesterday. It has been a year of many accomplishments and of working hard to repay the trust that Queenslanders have placed in the Crisafulli government. We all know the chaos and crisis that the previous Labor government left us across the four key areas—crime, health, housing and cost of living— after their decade of decline. This government has listened to Queenslanders and we are getting on with the job. There is still a long way to go, but we remain laser focused on the task at hand, while those opposite seem to be interested in plotting another Christmas coup on their leader. One can only wonder who will wake up with the title ‘opposition leader’ in their Christmas stocking.
Closer to home, we saw a significant milestone last week when I was joined by the housing minister to officially open a new block of social housing units in Alexandra Hills. We had the opportunity to speak with some of the new residents who told us their stories of struggling to find housing and how much their new homes would help them. The Crisafulli government has almost 200 social and affordable homes in construction or under contract across the Redlands, and with the record funding outlined in the budget there will be many more.
While delivering more housing, it is vitally important I also note that there are many other families across the community who are struggling with the cost of living, particularly around Christmas time. That is why this year we decided to host a give-away competition of a $300 Woolworths voucher to one lucky Capalaba family to help with the Christmas shopping. As part of the application, I asked for a few words about what Christmas really means to them. Their responses were really uplifting to read. The most common thing that submitters mentioned was spending time with their loved ones and coming together to celebrate the festive season. A special congratulations goes out to Gabrielle of Alexandra Hills, who won that draw, and a big thank you goes to all those who entered and shared their thoughts.
Finally, I would like to wish all the members and staff of the House and all the constituents across the state a very merry Christmas and a happy new year.
