5th February, 2026.
One of the best parts of my role as a member of Parliament is receiving emails from constituents that share good news. On 22 January I received an email from Melanie Enks, who recently graduated from the University of Newcastle with a Master of Special and Inclusive Education degree. Melanie successfully completed this degree through the New South Wales Government Inclusive Education Scholarships Program. Melanie writes that, "as a single parent on a low income with three dependants, the financial cost of further study would otherwise have been prohibitive". This program has enabled Melanie to complete the degree and continue working full time in a local preschool. Because of Melanie's scholarship, her teaching has been significantly strengthened and updated. She successfully sought a teaching position with improved pay and conditions, and she has received invaluable professional connections within the sector. I congratulate Melanie on receiving her degree and on her dedication not only to the sector but also to her interest in her own education. I wish her the best for her future.