In a powerful and deeply personal first address to parliament, newly elected Labor MP Ali Frances moved colleagues with her passionate commitment to social justice, declaring that "fighting for fairness runs in my blood."
The daughter of a nurse and a union organiser, Frances paid tribute to her parents' lifelong dedication to workers' rights, which she said shaped her political values from childhood. "I grew up at kitchen table discussions about fair wages and safe workplaces," she told the chamber.
A Legacy of Activism
Frances shared poignant anecdotes about accompanying her father to union meetings as a child, recalling how these experiences taught her "the power of collective action." She pledged to continue this legacy by championing policies that protect vulnerable workers and ensure equitable pay.
Key Policy Priorities
In her speech, the new MP outlined three key focus areas:
- Closing the gender pay gap
- Strengthening protections for gig economy workers
- Expanding access to affordable childcare
"When we lift up the most vulnerable among us, we all rise together," Frances declared, earning applause from fellow Labor members.
The emotional highpoint came when Frances described her mother's experiences as an underpaid nurse, vowing to fight for better conditions for healthcare workers. "No one who cares for others should struggle to care for themselves," she said, her voice breaking with emotion.
