Page 3380 - Week 10 - Wednesday, 19 October 2022

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Estimates 2022-2023—Select Committee

Report—government response

Debate resumed from 11 October 2022, on motion by Mr Barr:

That the Assembly take note of the paper:

Estimates 2022-2023—Select Committee—Report—Inquiry into Appropriation Bill 2022-2023 and Appropriation (Office of the Legislative Assembly) Bill 2022-2023—Government response, October 2022.

Question resolved in the affirmative.

Adjournment

Motion (by Ms Cheyne) proposed:

That the Assembly do now adjourn.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

MRS KIKKERT (Ginninderra) (6.18): This month is Australia’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a wonderful opportunity to turn our minds to those who have lived experienced of the disease, and their loved ones, in our community. Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer affecting Australian women. I have members in my family who have suffered from breast cancer, including my grandmother and several of my aunties, who all sadly passed away from their cancers. The journey from diagnosis to treatment and ongoing care is not easy. Nor is it short. It is not simple and it is not without pains and heartaches.

As a member of the ACT Legislative Assembly, I am committed to advocating for better health care and health outcomes for all Canberrans. Today I particularly wish to repeat my commitment to advocating for women to receive the best care when it comes to fighting breast cancer, no matter who you are, where you come from or what stage your diagnosis is at.

I am grateful for BreastScreen ACT, which is part of our national breast cancer screening program. Survival rates for those who are diagnosed with breast cancer are on the rise, with 89 out of every 100 women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer now surviving five or more years beyond diagnosis. Early screening for cancer has played a big part in improving these outcomes.

I took the opportunity to book in for a breast screen earlier this year, in February, and found the appointment very straightforward, with quick and friendly service that made me feel very comfortable. I doubt that there is anyone here in this chamber that needs a reminder to go and book a breast screen, but I am thankful to be in a position where I can encourage and raise awareness in our community.

I have had constituents call my office in the past, asking for more information about cancer screening or help with booking a screening appointment for breast cancer, as well as other types of cancers. My staff have enjoyed being of assistance. It is a


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