Turnbull, Malcolm, MP

Mr TURNBULL (Wentworth—Prime Minister) (14:01): I move: That the House record its deep regret at the death, on 21 June 2017, of the Honourable Concetto Antonio (Con) Sciacca AO, a former Minister and Member of this House for the Division of Bowman, 1987-1996 and 1998-2004, place on record its appreciation of his long and meritorious public service, and tender its profound sympathy to his family in their bereavement. The life of Con Sciacca is a great Australian success story. Migrating from Italy in 1951, Con and his family arrived with few possessions. Like many postwar migrants, the Sciaccas were drawn by the promise of opportunity and driven by a deep belief that, with hard work and dedication, anyone could succeed. It was this vision that inspired a young Con to enter politics, joining the youth wing of the Queensland branch of the Australian Labor Party at just 17. He rose to become a party office-bearer, a local MP and, ultimately, a federal minister. Throughout his political career, he consistently demonstrated his dedication to building a fairer and more inclusive society. He also showed remarkable dedication to honouring our veterans and their legacy, and is best remembered, as Minister for Veterans' Affairs, for the Australian Remembers program to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the end of World War II. His advocacy on behalf of migrants and the disadvantaged in our community brought both dignity and opportunity to his fellow Australians. Such achievements earned Con many well-deserved accolades and honours, among them the Order of Australia, the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, the Order of the Lion of Finland, the Centenary Medal for service to the veterans' communities and life memberships to the Returned Services League, the RAAF Association of Australia and the Naval Association of Australia, to name just a few. But perhaps Con's finest achievement was in realising, in the words of his maiden speech, the vision and dreams of his family, thereby proving 'that Australia is still the land of golden opportunity'. Con's lifetime contribution to politics, business and the law reflects an inspirational commitment to Australian public life, but those who knew him best will remember him most as a beloved mentor, a generous friend, a great host, a raconteur and a larrikin. I am sure that he will be missed on both sides of the House. To Con Sciacca's family I offer, on behalf of the Australian parliament and the Australian people, our most sincere condolences.