Parliament House Matters

Teen Parliament

The SPEAKER (14:10): Before we move to question time, I would like to let members know that last week we were very privileged to have young people from around South Australia in the chamber for The Advertiser's Teen Parliament. I want to put on the record my thanks to Gemma Jones and all the staff at The Advertiser, and to the management.

It was an outstanding day on which we heard some unbelievable speeches, including one from a young man, a 15 year old, called Patrick Saunders, who is non-verbal. It was one of the most moving speeches I have heard in this place in 19 years, as he gave his account of the challenges that he faces. He then threw out a challenge to the state of South Australia to do better in the world of autism and disability. If you get the chance to go back and have a look at some of the videos—they were excellent.

I want to thank all those members of parliament, including the Premier, who were here, and also the education staff who do such a great job: Natalie, Shannon and the team. It was a terrific day, and I think we are in safe hands with the 30 young people who we had here putting across their points of view last Friday.