Hogan, Ms M.

The Hon. K.A. HILDYARD (Reynell—Minister for Child Protection, Minister for Women and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing) (14:05): I seek leave to make a ministerial statement.

Leave granted.

The Hon. K.A. HILDYARD: It is with incredibly deep sadness that I rise to speak about the loss of Michelle Hogan, a much loved and highly regarded woman who has made enormous contributions to the labour movement, to women and community.

Over four decades, Michelle worked tirelessly and with compassion and wisdom to advance workers' rights, to achieve gender equality, to ensure respect, fairness and dignity for women and to ensure community organisations were supported to effectively work with and for people, and particularly those most vulnerable, in ways that made a difference in their lives.

In all that she did, Michelle relentlessly sought to empower and encourage other women. She was an extraordinary Chair of the Working Women's Centre and a steadfast and long-term supporter of the Anna Stewart Memorial Project, which seeks to empower and support women in the union movement.

Her work as SA Union's Assistant Secretary two decades ago was innovative and transformative and always focused on including people and amplifying the voices of others, particularly those most vulnerable.

Michelle served as a Port Adelaide Enfield councillor and contributed to community life in a range of different ways both here and overseas, including through her steadfast commitment to APHEDA Union Aid Abroad.

Michelle was renowned and so loved for her wisdom and empathy and her generous mentoring of other women. I and others, including the member for Gibson and the Hon. Irene Pnevmatikos MLC, have benefited so much from her kindness and care. She was tireless in campaigning for fairness, peace and women's rights, and it was an honour for many of us to campaign alongside her.

A kind friend to many, a passionate and compassionate advocate and an outstanding leader, Michelle will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her willingness to support and empower others will continue to inspire us and future generations.

Vale Michelle Hogan. May you rest in peace. We offer our love and condolences to her partner, Rob, all of her family and the many, many others who loved her.