From Rebecca's Desk 

Djilba Edition

Welcome to the Djilba (August/September) edition of the Albany Update!

Djilba is the Noongar season represented by the colour pink, symbolising the growth of wildflowers. It is a transitional time of year, with cold, clear and sunny skies, as well as warmer, rainy and windy days. 

I am so looking forward to the Springtime sun, but with Spring comes an increase in swooping koolbardi (magpies), so please keep a look out when you are out walking and enjoying our beautiful Albany coastline and hinterland.

Voice Referendum 

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recently confirmed that Australians will have their say in a referendum on whether to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Peoples of Australia in the Constitution through an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. 

The Voice would be an independent, representative body for First Nations peoples. 

It would advise the Australian Parliament and the Government. 

It would give First Nations peoples a say on matters that affect them.

I will be voting Yes on 14 October 2023.  

It only takes two minutes to check your enrolment for the upcoming referendum.  You can do so here:  aec.gov.au/enrol

Ensure you can participate and have your say in this important part of Australia's history.  

Fact sheet: Referendum question and constitutional amendment | The Voice

Spencer Park Mobile Office

Thank you to everyone who attended our recent mobile office in Spencer Park. It is always really beneficial for me to gain insight into the issues that matter to you as residents.  

Our next event will be held at Spencer Park Shopping Centre on Friday 15 September between 10am - 11am.  Please come down and have a free coffee on me.  

Scam Forum with Minister Ellery

I held a very successful Scam Prevention Forum with Minister Sue Ellery MLC and Commissioner Trish Blake from Consumer Protection at the Albany Public Library.  

At this very well attended event, the Minister and Commissioner were able to give those attending a great deal of free information and tools to shut down scams.

I will be holding another Scam Prevention Forum at the Albany Public Library on 24 October.  Please call my office on 9841 8799 if you would like to attend.  

Book and Toy Drive

Every child in every community deserves a fair go. National Child Protection Week runs from 3 – 9 September 2023 to remind us how everyone in the community can play a role in keeping children safe and supported. 

Thank you to everyone who has delivered books and toys to my office for children in foster care. It is greatly appreciated.

Rebecca Stephens MLA | Member for Albany