The Hon. AILEEN MacDONALD (18:31): I hope to bring a little sunshine to the House—although I think the Hon. Bronnie Taylor did a very good job of that this afternoon. In my experience, those who interact with this place often leave somewhat disillusioned. But I have a story of positivity, hope and optimism to share. It is about an impressive young man named Rodger Liang who was recently an intern in my office. Rodger is one of two interns I have had in my office since I came to be in this place. They are outstanding young Australians and, interestingly, for both, English is their second language. Rodger had occasion to write about his experience at the New South Wales Parliament as part of his studies at the University of Technology Sydney. I would like to share his thoughts with the House. I was touched when he wrote:

I came into Parliament House critical of politics, and of politicians. An unhealthy displeasure and sometimes anger for what went on in these halls.

If I had known that beforehand, he may not have been my intern! He continued:

Too often in politics, we see a condescending denial that disadvantages exist, that the suffering others have isn't real at all.

He went on to say that my office showed him that instead of hypocrisy we can lend a hand to help people be themselves, without placing unfair burdens upon them. I do not say this to brag about the way I run my office; I say it to remind the House that there are many good people in this place, from all sides of the political divide, whose hearts are in the right place. Many of us come here wary of this building's reputation. But fresh eyes, like Rodger's, not unlike sunlight, can be the best disinfectant.

What I take from Rodger's words is that, despite the obvious cynicism surrounding politics in New South Wales, intelligent young Australians can come here and see through the murkiness to find positivity. Also, his words remind me that looks can be deceiving. Rodger is a studious, bookish type—almost introverted. He was hardly one who came across as wanting to change the world. But his experience here left a lasting impression. I quote Rodger again:

I learnt our actions can't be based on untested beliefs. They must be guided by the outcomes we make and to listen carefully to each and every one who calls themselves Australian.

Academic research is one tool, but listening to those affected is an even better one.

I look forward to seeing restorative justice for the youth, not only for those in the metropolitan areas of Sydney, but in regional NSW as well, where it's most needed, and perhaps, most ignored.

I would like all of us in this Chamber to take note that a young student can enter this building with a clean slate and leave some weeks or months later with positive opinions on how we can keep our youth out of detention and away from the cycle of crime. Rodger's closing remarks are an inspiration to us all. He wrote:

Now I plan to lead by example — as a Board Member at Activate UTS, my university's campus life organisation.

My intent as a leader is not apathy and inaction. For that, I plan to ask a simple question: how can we do better for each other?

It is crucial that not only do we find power, but the power and responsibility to do right by others.

I am not the first and will not be the last member of this Parliament to host in an intern, but if they all leave with lasting sentiments like Rodger, then I have hope in my heart that, despite the trivial tribulations we endure in this place, we are still guiding our youth with positive messages to make this great State a better place. This House has a rich history; certainly, we are equally capable of a rich future.