Speeches
Wednesday, 10 June 2026
Morning Tea to thank Pakistani Association of SA volunteers
I am delighted to welcome you all to Government House to recognise the more than four decades your association has served this State.
South Australia has an enduring friendship with Pakistan forged through culture, academia, commerce, education, and sport.
According to the last census almost 6000 people who were born in Pakistan live in South Australia.
Our State’s cultural and linguistic diversity gives us strength and important international connections.
I thank the Association for supporting the Pakistani community in South Australia by:
- easing the transition to a new country
- sharing your culture
- staging important cultural events, including Pakistan Independence Day celebrations
- connecting with the wider Australian community and fostering positive engagement and social cohesion.
I know this has been achieved through the pride and dedication of many volunteers since the formation of the association in 1984, which built on earlier community efforts.
I thank you for doing so because through you, greater understanding, inclusivity, and participation can be built, including through collaboration between our many multicultural organisations.
One of the hallmarks of South Australia is the willingness of many people to give back to their communities and help shape a harmonious future in which the values that we hold dear can be upheld.
Equally importantly, South Australia benefits from the professional expertise and global insights that contribute to a forward-looking economy.
The leadership and members of the Pakistani Australian Association of South Australia have ensured that sense of belonging and connection.
I am pleased to present certificates to the four people whose current management committee tenure will conclude this month and thank them for their service.