Progress made under the Albanese Labor government

As 2024 draws to a close, I am proud to stand with my colleagues here and in the other place and reflect on all the progress Australia has made under the Albanese Labor government. Over a million new jobs have been created. The gender pay gap has dropped to a historic low. Real wages are growing. Half a million Australians have taken up fee-free TAFE. There have been 5.4 million new bulk-billed Medicare visits delivered. We are building Australia’s renewable energy future and harnessing the jobs and opportunities it creates.

Just last night, a historic 15 per cent wage increase for early educators became the law in this country. This has been years in the making. It is an absolute honour to stand here today and congratulate the educators, the unions and the advocates who have made this happen. They have worked so hard to get the pay and recognition that educators more than deserve.

I had the privilege of representing this workforce before my time in the Senate. I know that they have given their all to make this happen. While the work is far from over, this pay rise will be life changing. Our educators love their jobs, but love does not pay the rent. More pay this Christmas will be so welcome and so will the respect that we are showing for this hardworking, dedicated and highly skilled workforce.

What a way to cap off this year. Heading into 2025, our government is committed to building Australia’s future—a future of good jobs, stronger Medicare and opportunity for all.