21 November 2023

Mr ANOULACK CHANTHIVONG (Macquarie Fields—Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading, Minister for Industry and Trade, Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology, Minister for Building, and Minister for Corrections)—Change starts small. Sam Oakes' idea to provide formal dress options at little or no cost proved so popular it needed a space of its own. Step in Minto Mall and a band of community‑minded volunteers. There is now a dedicated space at Minto Mall where students can shop for their school formals run by Sam and a team of generous supporters. The only difference in this shop is that there are no price tags. The venture is needed more than ever given the cost-of-living crisis. The Formal Project helps young people from year 6 to university and TAFE find an outfit for their big night. It all started with just one child who needed a dress. Sam says: "That was one kid too many for me." Nearly 900 students are booked in for a fitting ‑ double the number of students dressed last year. The Formal Project has plans to expand and provide clothing for other events, such as job interviews. I commend Sam's outstanding efforts and thank everyone involved. What started as a small act of kindness is now making a huge difference.