Ms JODIE HARRISON (Charlestown—Minister for Women, Minister for Seniors, and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault)—On Saturday, 14 September, people in communities all over NSW went to the polls to elect their local government representatives. As it is the closest level of government to the community, councillors have an enormous impact on the day to day lives of many. Councillors make decisions about planning, service delivery and amenities for our communities. This is an enormous responsibility, as many of us in this chamber know from first-hand experience, and I want to take this opportunity to recognise all those who put their hands up to represent their friends and neighbours on City of Newcastle council. I would like to congratulate those elected or re-elected across the wonderful City of Newcastle, and to thank those who were unsuccessful for giving their all to their campaigns. I know how challenging running for public office so often is. I wish to acknowledge Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes on her decade of leadership, and I thank her for her contributions. I look forward to working with the new Council.

A Community Recognition Notice is an opportunity for an MP to submit a short statement praising the work of an individual or group in the local community. If you have any ideas about people I can recognise with a Community Recognition Notice, please email and let me know!