The call for Constitutional recognition of First Nations people in Australia has reached a pivotal moment with the Uluru Statement from the Heart. This profound invitation, born from the 2017 National Constitutional Convention and 12 Regional Dialogues, seeks to establish a Voice to Parliament, reflecting the deep spiritual sovereignty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This sovereignty, unceded and co-existing with the Crown's, underscores the urgent need for structural reform to address the disproportionate incarceration, family alienation, and youth detention among Indigenous communities. The proposed constitutional reforms, including the establishment of a First Nations Voice and a Makarrata Commission for agreement-making and truth-telling, represent a critical step towards empowering First Nations people and enriching Australia's national identity. As we reflect on the journey from being counted in 1967 to seeking to be heard in 2017, the invitation to walk together towards a just and self-determined future for First Nations children and all Australians is more pressing than ever.

In the dynamic environment of Parliament, the process of voting in Divisions plays a crucial role in shaping legislation and policy outcomes. As an Independent MP, the responsibility to represent my community's values in every vote is paramount. With 92 Divisions participated in to date, my approach to voting is guided by principles of fairness, financial responsibility, and the pursuit of transparency and accountability. My voting record reveals a balanced support across the political spectrum, reflecting a commitment to the issues rather than party lines. As I continue to navigate the complexities of parliamentary decisions, I am dedicated to providing my constituents with a transparent account of my voting rationale, ensuring that the diverse voices of Curtin are heard and represented in the national discourse.

As an Independent MP, I'm often asked about the impact I can make. This month, I spotlight the parliamentary motion as a tool for change, particularly through my recent proposal addressing the vaping crisis among youth. Partnered with fellow MPs Dr. Sophie Scamps and Mike Freelander, we've spotlighted the urgent need for regulatory reform to curb the accessibility and appeal of vapes to young Australians. Our motion calls for government action to close loopholes that allow the unregulated sale of nicotine-containing vapes, advocating for a prescription-only model to protect our community's health. This initiative is driven by alarming feedback from constituents and educators in Curtin, highlighting the widespread misuse of vapes by teenagers, often marketed with youth-oriented flavours. As we await the Health Minister's response to proposed regulatory reforms, I remain committed to voicing the concerns of my community, pushing for meaningful action against the vaping epidemic.

Explore the key initiatives for Curtin in 2023, including the Pathway to Net Zero project, Voice Referendum support, and upcoming changes in environmental protection. Join efforts in building a sustainable and engaged community in Curtin. Read more about how we're planning to enhance local governance and community well-being in the new year.

Discover the influential role of parliamentary committees in shaping public policy and community engagement as detailed by an Independent Member of Parliament. Learn about the current inquiries into community safety, online gambling, and electoral integrity, and see how these efforts are designed to address pressing societal issues and improve governance. Get involved and watch public committee hearings to see democracy in action.

Independent MP Kate Chaney is actively addressing intergenerational fairness in Australian politics through her parliamentary initiatives. Highlighting the widening economic disparities between generations, Chaney advocates for a comprehensive government inquiry into intergenerational inequality. Her efforts, fueled by discussions with constituents and advocacy groups, aim to restore equitable economic opportunities and long-term sustainability in policy-making. This campaign reflects Chaney's commitment to bridging generational divides and ensuring fair chances for future Australians, encapsulated in her call for national conversation and legislative action.

Independent MP Kate Chaney leverages her parliamentary platform to address the pervasive issue of gambling advertising, a concern raised by her constituents in Curtin. Highlighting the normalization of gambling in sports viewing, Chaney's advocacy led to media attention and spurred a parliamentary inquiry by the Social Policy and Legal Affairs Committee. Her proactive approach includes engaging local youth through advisory groups to contribute to the submission for the inquiry, demonstrating a commitment to community-driven policy reform in tackling gambling-related issues.