Pretty Beach students visit parliament

Students from Pretty Beach Public School visited Parliament House in Canberrra on Tuesday, September 13, as part of a school excursion.

Member for Robertson Ms Deborah O'Neill spoke to the students on a number of issues, including the importance of working hard at school, being good citizens, and looking after their local environment.

"It's great that students from Pretty Beach have come to parliament, to learn more about how government works," said Ms O'Neill.

"What happens in the Australian Parliament - the laws we pass, the decisions we make - affect all Australians, so it's important for young people to know how these laws and decisions are made."

Ms O'Neill said she encouraged the students to take an interest in politics, and even consider joining a political party when they are old enough.

"It's important that political parties reflect the views of young people." Ms O'Neill said.

"Young people's voices and views are equal to other adults and we need to listen to them more closely."

The students from Pretty Beach Public school asked Ms O'Neill a number of questions.

In response to one question, Ms O'Neill told the students how in Australia Prime Ministers were elected by their parliamentary party.

Ms O'Neill mentioned some benefits of her job such as how she got to announce $890,000 in funding for the Coast Shelter Community Centre last week.

The Member for Robertson praised the Pretty Beach students for being good representatives for their families and their school in Canberra.

Media Release, 13 Sep 2011 Nakitah Morison, Bourke High School