On 24 March, I joined 118 students from across the country to attend the 30th National Schools’ Constitutional Convention in Canberra.

Throughout the Convention, I had the opportunity to meet several politicians, including Senate President Sue Lines, Foreign Minister Penny Wong, MP Dr Anne Aly and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. We sat in on Question Time in the House of Representatives and were present when Treasurer Jim Chalmers delivered the 2025 Budget speech, and then were in the Senate when a Greens Senator held up a large salmon (in breach of standing orders which prohibits props). We also visited the Governor General at Government House (Yarralumla) and had dinner at the National Press Club. Later, in groups, we debated and discussed the topic of a proposed referendum on fiscal federalism which we voted on at the end of the conference. Like most referendums in our history, it was defeated. The group chat of 118 students continued the robust debate throughout the week and ever since!

The entire experience was incredibly insightful, deepening my understanding of Australian politics and the workings of our democracy.

Abigail Julien
12K3