Hignett, Mr B.

The Hon. J.K. SZAKACS (Cheltenham—Minister for Trade and Investment, Minister for Local Government, Minister for Veterans Affairs) (14:12): I seek leave to make a ministerial statement.

Leave granted.

The Hon. J.K. SZAKACS: The veterans community, and South Australia, lost a giant on 5 May 2024. Bill Hignett OAM, a remarkable man and advocate passed away after a short illness. Bill's journey of service began just after his 20^th birthday when he was called up for national service. He served 469 days in Vietnam as part of the 86 Transport Platoon of the Royal Australian Army Corps. His dedication to duty and his comrades exemplified the highest ideals of service. At Bill's funeral service we heard about his commitment to his comrades, and his appreciation for the communities in which he served in South Vietnam.

We heard that while deployed Bill would teach Vietnamese children the English language in the evenings, such was the kindness of Bill and such was the demonstration of his lifelong commitment to education. Returning to South Australia after his service, Bill embarked on an impressive career as an educator and as an advocate. His passion for education, particularly in Indigenous communities, was inspiring. As an organiser for the Australian Education Union, he worked tirelessly to ensure that all voices were heard, that the teaching profession was respected, and that workers organised collectively to find power.

Bill's contribution to advancements in Aboriginal education and the Aboriginal community was significant. In 1982, he worked alongside Peter and Pat Buckskin to negotiate the appointment of Aboriginal education teachers. He also made significant contributions to the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody and to the development of the Aboriginal Education Workers Award.

Bill was a member of the South Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander War Memorial committee and a member of the RSL project team, supporting and assisting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander veterans and their families. Bill's commitment to these important issues and causes earned him recognition for the Order of Australia medal in 2014, which specifically recognised his service to Reconciliation SA and establishment of the Kaurna Plains School in Adelaide.

Bill's work and advocacy will be long-lasting, but perhaps none more so impactful than his instrumental role in the establishment of the Plympton Veterans Centre. The centre advocates tirelessly for veterans and their families. Bill initially volunteered support to work at the centre, but soon found himself as a leader. His commitment to their welfare earned him recognition, including the prestigious Returned and Services League ANZAC of the Year Award in 2023.

It was an honour to be in attendance at Bill's funeral, along with the member for Elder. I again extend my deepest condolences to Bill's family: his wife, Sally; his children, Anna and Paul, Sam and Sarah, and Kate; and all his colleagues at the Plympton Veterans Centre, the RSL, and the wider veteran community.

The South Australian veteran community will remember Bill's unwavering dedication to others. Educators will remember him for his advocacy and campaigning. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander veterans will remember him for his solidarity. May we all strive to carry forward his legacy of service and compassion. We will remember him. Vale.