By Parker McKenzie
Casey MP Aaron Violi used his first speech in Parliament on Tuesday 26 July to commend the community spirit of the region after the June 2021 storm weather event while calling for stronger educational outcomes and opportunities.
Mr Violi, who was elected to replace Tony Smith at the May 21 federal election, said Casey has been his family’s home since 1953 and his presence in parliament is an example of the extraordinary democracy in Australia.
“Antonino and Grazia Violi and their six children travelled halfway around the world, leaving behind their family and the safety of the known in search of a better life in Australia,” he said.
“They settled in the small country town of Silvan and established a farm to support their family. I often reflect on my grandparent’s story and try to imagine the courage and sacrifice it would have taken to make that journey and the hardships that they endured.”
He said his education at Lilydale Mercy College provided him with the opportunity to attend university and a pathway to starting a career in business in the Yarra Valley.
“Governments over the last 20 years have invested billions in education, while results have been going backwards. This is unacceptable not only on the societal level but most importantly at the individual level,” he said.
“A robust education system focused on educational outcomes and opportunities is the foundation of our society and the individual. It needs to be the priority of government policy on education.”
Mr Violi said a defining moment in his life was on 7 February 2009 during the Black Saturday bushfires.
“It was the moment I went from a carefree young man living like I would live forever to understanding that the most precious gifts we have are life and time,” he said.
“The difference between Rachel and I being here today and being victims 174 and 175 was a matter of seconds and meters. Our story of Black Saturday is a story thousands of people who survived that day would understand.”
He said the community spirit built after one of the darkest days in the communities’ history was called upon again during the June 2021 storm weather event.
“While we were fortunate that no lives were lost, the storms destroyed many homes that have still not been rebuilt and left residents without power and communications for weeks and months,” he said.
“The recovery from the storms continues and I stand with our community as we rebuild.”
Mr Violi said he wanted to be a voice for small businesses in parliament and highlighted the need to ensure legislation supports them and the digital economy. He said a strong and secure economy isn’t just delivering a balanced budget or economic growth, but it allows the government to invest in childcare, health, education, defence, aged care and other services that support all Australians.
He thanked his family, campaign team and the previous member Mr Smith.
“At this point, I want to acknowledge and thank the most important people in my life, my wife Rachel and my children Lewis and Georgie,” he said.
Mr Violi said he hopes when his time representing the people of Casey ends, he will be remembered as a member who stayed connected to and delivered for his community.
“Waste no more time talking about what a good politician should do, just be one.” Mr Violi finished.
