Ms JODIE HARRISON (Charlestown—Minister for Women, Minister for Seniors, and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault)—Natalia Hogan has turned her own experience of hardship into an extraordinary determination to help other young people, and has been named a finalist for the 2026 Westfield Kotara Local Hero of the Year. At just 15, Natalia was living in a youth refuge before receiving support from Samaritans, an organisation she credits with changing the course of her life. In October last year, Natalia decided to give back in an incredible way, running 175 kilometres from Sydney to Newcastle to raise funds for Samaritans Student Accommodation and support other young people experiencing homelessness. Now, her courage and determination have earned her recognition as a Westfield Local Hero finalist. If successful, the $20,000 grant will help Samaritans Student Accommodation provide residents with fast and reliable internet, supporting access to education, employment opportunities, essential services and mental health support. Regardless of the outcome, Natalia should be incredibly proud of how she has used her own experiences to create opportunities for others. With voting closing this month, I wish Natalia and Samaritans the very best of luck.

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!