Remarks at the Australian Red Cross 110th anniversary reception

I thank you for the Welcome to Country.

I also pay my respects to the Kaurna people.

I acknowledge them as the traditional custodians of this land.

I also pay my respects to elders past and present.

I acknowledge South Australian Governor, Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC.

Thank you for hosting this special event commemorating the 110th anniversary of Australian Red Cross.

As you noted, there is a proud and enduring association between the office of the South Australian Governor and the Red Cross.

I acknowledge federal and state ministers, shadow ministers and other parliamentary colleagues present.

And of course, the Australian Red Cross staff, members and volunteers who we are here to honour and celebrate.

Members of a voluntary organisation unlike any other in the country – and one that has operated for the past 110 years.

Four branches have operated continuously in South Australia since 1914: Gawler, Kulpara, Milang and Murray Bridge.

Those circles, as they were known then, first began raising funds to support wounded and sick soldiers – overseas and on their return to Australia.

The beginnings of an organisation that would go on to help care for new mothers and babies, support Australian prisoners of war, establish blood transfusion services and provide essential services in countless conflicts, crises and natural disasters – here and across the world.

No South Australian will forget in the darkest days of the Black Summer bushfires of 2019, it was you who was there to help.

Supporting those affected navigate financial grants, access psychological services and helping them stay connected to their communities – especially as COVID-19 compounded the difficulties.

The Australian Red Cross is one of our nation’s most trusted and most effective humanitarian organisations – fundamental to our ability to respond internationally to crises, support local communities, and uphold humanitarian principles.

Its members embodying the spirit of humanity – and your mission is enshrined in law.

As the Governor said, this is the week, in which we marked the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions.

A reminder of a time when the international community came together and made a promise to each other that we would honour rules in conflict and in war.

That we would observe humanitarian principles to protect civilians.

And given what is occurring throughout this world. These conventions have never been more important.

Five years ago, the Presidents of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the International Committee of the Red Cross said:

“Today, humanitarians are subject to more threats and attacks than ever before.

“Every year, tragically, we lose staff and volunteers. We are haunted by the empty spaces they leave behind and the words of gratitude they will never hear.”

It was stark and moving, that warning – but the situation has only worsened.

With 192 deaths already, this year is on track to be the deadliest year for humanitarian workers on record.

And of course, our fellow Australian, Zomi Frankcom, and her World Central Kitchen colleagues, are among them.

We must ensure the tragic deaths, and the deaths of all humanitarian workers across the globe are not in vain and we must work to ensure they are never repeated.

That is why Australia is working to regalvanise international commitment to the protection of humanitarian workers, in Gaza and beyond.

For the protection of people who put their lives at risk to help others.

For the protection of our common humanity in the most inhumane conditions.

Because that is what the Geneva Conventions speak to, our common humanity.

The members of the Red Cross intimately know the costs of war and the value of peace.

And we stand as a Government steadfast alongside Australian Red Cross in advocating for protection of aid workers and civilians.

The Red Cross and Red Crescent symbols must remain a beacon of trust and hope and they must remain so.

They are a symbol of the protected.

We must do all that we can to ensure that continues.

So I am very grateful to be here today to celebrate this anniversary with you.

My Congratulations. May your future be marked by the same commitment to community, spirit of cohesion, and service that has defined your remarkable history.

Thank you.