2024 Queensland Community Impact Awards

Representing the Premier of Queensland, Minister for Families, Seniors and Disability Services and Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, the Honourable Amanda Camm MP; Chair, Queensland Council of Social Service, Mr Matt Gardiner, and Board Directors; Chief Executive Officer, Queensland Council of Social Service, Ms Aimee McVeigh; distinguished guests; Awardees; ladies and gentlemen.

I too begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to any First Nations people here this evening.

As Governor of Queensland and Patron of the Queensland Council of Social Service, I am always thrilled to be able to acknowledge the incredible work performed in this vital sector.

Events such as this allow me to thank you directly for the contributions you have made to improving our communities, and to express my pride in your achievements.

Tonight, our focus will be on specific service providers and individuals receiving awards in recognition of their work supporting Queenslanders in need.

As the peak body for the social service sector in Queensland, QCOSS projects a strong vision of positive social change that leads to connected, safe and thriving Queensland communities.

The realisation of this vision depends on the vital work of these people and many others like them: the frontline heroes, the human rights champions, the equality advocates, the people who make an impact at a community level and across our broader society.

Of course, it also relies on the work of those in funding and in service provision, in data management, logistics and resource management.

QCOSS also distinguishes itself through its impactful campaigns —think Home Time, Everybody’s Home, and Advance to Zero — which not only raise awareness but prompt action around some of our most critical social concerns.

It is so uplifting to see and to hear of the incredible acts of giving that take place in the social service sector.

It’s hard to fathom how many in our community might continue to suffer discrimination, social isolation, hunger, homelessness and a lack of opportunity without them.

It is uplifting to think of the wellbeing and sense of belonging they foster, and the lessons of fairness, respect, dignity and compassion they teach us.

I offer my congratulations to all awardees — and indeed, all who were nominated — on behalf of Queenslanders, and I thank you for your dedication and commitment to making a positive impact in our communities.