Recently, a number of new councillors were elected to Liverpool council. It's my earnest hope that they'll start asking what the problem is and why projects such as the improvement in the Middleton Grange area have not yet commenced. In the meantime, I'd like to voice in this place the concerns of my constituents and hold organisations like the council to account.

At the recent council election, a number of councillors retired or did not re-stand. I acknowledge the Hon. Charishma Kaliyanda, who, since her election to the New South Wales state parliament, has been serving in both roles with distinction. Thankfully, the people of Liverpool will continue to be well served by her understanding of our local community and her care and passion, but I acknowledge all the work she did on Liverpool council since 2016.

Also retiring at this election was Ali Karnib, who gave 29 years of service to the people of Liverpool as a councillor. Ali served on Liverpool Council with distinction, and it was my great privilege to serve with him for eight years before coming to this place. I learned many things from him: dedication, commitment and how to represent the community and help them with their issues. A former teacher, Ali settled in Liverpool in 1984 and subsequently raised his family there. In the ensuing years, Ali has been a champion for our area and our local community. Ali also served for decades as the president of the Lebanese Community Council. Ali always put others front and centre in his mind and his community work. Liverpool council is better for the presence of people like Ali Karnib, and I place on record my sincere thanks to Ali for his friendship and support over many years and wish him all the very best for the future. Thankfully, the legacy of Ali will continue with the election of his son, Sam Karnib, to Liverpool council. I'm certain Sam will continue his father's outstanding work and ensure that Liverpool residents continue to have a strong voice.

I also congratulate Ethan Monaghan on his election to council, and I congratulate Dr Betty Green, who has been returned for another term. I look forward to working with the new council into the future.

Link to Hansard: Full Speech