Motions

Pakistani Australian Association of South Australia

Adjourned debate on motion of Hon. J.S. Lee:

That this council—

1. Congratulates the Pakistani Australian Association of South Australia (PAASA) for reaching the special milestone of their 40^th anniversary in 2024;

2. Recognises that PAASA is a pioneering organisation established in South Australia by volunteers to support migrants and international students from Pakistan;

3. Acknowledges the important work of founding members, current and past presidents, committee members and volunteers of PAASA for their hard work, dedication and contributions in delivering 40 years of outstanding community services including information workshops, cultural events, sports and recreational programs for the Pakistani community in South Australia; and

4. Reflects on the many achievements of PAASA over four decades and its important contributions to multicultural South Australia.

(Continued from 16 October 2024.)

The Hon. M. EL DANNAWI (17:43): I rise to speak in support of the honourable member's motion. On behalf of the South Australian government, I want to congratulate the Pakistani Australian Association of South Australia on their 40^th anniversary. I was honoured to attend the celebration on behalf of the Hon. Zoe Bettison, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, in Carisbrooke Park last year, which was also attended by His Excellency Mr Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri, High Commissioner of Pakistan to Australia, councillors, community leaders and members and families of the Pakistani community.

The Pakistani community in South Australia is one that is growing. In the last census in 2021, there were 5,666 Pakistani-born South Australians. It is wonderful to see this growing community supported by the work of PAASA and the small grouping of community members that established the association 40 years ago. In fact, 40 years ago, it was a group of migrants that created not just an association but a home for new migrants from Pakistan.

Great credit must go to the founding members. Dr Ashfaque Ahmed was the first President of the Australian Pakistani Association, which later in 1984 became PAASA as we know it. The leadership team of PAASA was Mr Shamim Noori as president, Dr Khalid Farooqi as secretary and Dr Farooq as treasurer. Throughout these four decades, the Pakistani Australian Association of South Australia has carried the torch of the founders and has been a steadfast pillar of support in our local community. It has been at the forefront of efforts to promote cultural understanding, unity and the vibrant traditions of Pakistan.

Their contributions have enriched the multicultural fabric of our state and have served as an example of how diverse communities can thrive together. The growth of the Pakistani community more recently has shown why this association is so important. Over the years, they have supported generations of Pakistanis to settle in South Australia. PAASA has been a critical support and source of comfort, ensuring the community is served with crucial guidance, services and support to keep new arrivals connected to their heritage while becoming active participants in our broader South Australian society.

This support has been critical in the success of the contributions made by the Pakistani community in South Australia. Whether it is economic or cultural, South Australia is a much better and stronger community with the Pakistani community in it. Events conducted by PAASA, such as Pakistani Independence Day, Eid al-Adha, Eid al-Fitr—which I am lucky to have been invited to this year—Sufi Night and the new migrants meet-and-greet celebrations, are all festive events that bring about connection and are also wonderful events in sharing Pakistani culture with the broader South Australian community.

These activities help bring people together and generate a sense of belonging that is deeply appreciated. That is why the Malinauskas government is proud to support the various activities of PAASA. I want to especially take this opportunity to extend my deepest gratitude to all past and current executive members, volunteers, supporters and sponsors of the association. In particular, I want to thank Mr Abdullah Memon, the current Chairperson of the Pakistani Australian Association of South Australia, and his executive team: Kashif Ashraf, vice-chairperson; and Nomia Khadim, general secretary. The South Australian government wishes the association well, and we look forward to their 50^th anniversary.

The Hon. L.A. HENDERSON (17:47): I rise today, as the lead speaker on behalf of the opposition, to support the Hon. Jing Lee's motion. In doing so, I take this opportunity to congratulate the Pakistani Australian Association of South Australia on their 40^th anniversary. This milestone is a testament to their dedication, resilience and contributions to the Pakistani community in our state.

Since its establishment, PAASA has been a pillar of support for Pakistani migrants and international students, helping them navigate new beginnings in South Australia. It has provided a range of services, from airport pick-ups and accommodation to job-ready workshops, ensuring that new arrivals feel welcomed and supported as they integrate into the South Australian way of life. Founded by volunteers with a vision of a strong, connected and vibrant Pakistani community in South Australia, PAASA has facilitated information workshops, cultural events, sporting programs and recreational activities.

It has provided not only practical assistance but also a sense of belonging, creating a space where cultural heritage can be celebrated while embracing the values of an inclusive, culturally diverse Australia. We recognise the incredible efforts of PAASA's founding members, past and present leaders, committee members and volunteers. Their hard work has strengthened not only the Pakistani community but the broader multicultural fabric in South Australia. Once again, I congratulate PAASA on their significant milestone and thank them for their 40 years of service to the Pakistani community in South Australia.

The Hon. J.S. LEE (17:49): I would like to thank the Hon. Mira El Dannawi and the Hon. Laura Henderson for their wonderful contributions. I am very certain that the Pakistani Australian Association of South Australia will enjoy reading the many wonderful words about the association and how it enriches multicultural South Australia. With those remarks, I commend the motion.

Motion carried.