Beaconhills Graduate to Become the Next Australian Prime Minister

February 23, 2009

Four eager hands shot into the air this week when visiting MP for Bass, the Hon. Ken Smith, asked an audience of Year 6 and 7 Beaconhills students who would like to pursue a career in politics.

The visit, which took place in the school’s lecture theatre on Friday 20 February, exposed students to the world of politics and way in which local laws are processed, the history of the parliamentary houses, the origin of the mace and sword emblem and way in which proposals are treated in parliament.

Year 7 student, Josh, enthusiastically informed the group that he one day wanted to become the Prime Minister of Australia. Ken agreed there is no reason why any young person shouldn’t aspire to become the Prime Minister of Australia.

The fledgling politicians were interested as Ken shared details about the average day in the life of a politician. Students were less impressed however, to learn of the long hours: 24hour parliamentary sessions under the Kennett government, and more recently sessions that run from 9.30am until 4am the following morning.

The middle school students were surprised to learn that following college, Ken started his career as a plumber. Although he loved his profession in plumbing, Ken became increasingly frustrated by decisions being made in State Parliament and their affect on his life and that of his family. To this end, Ken encouraged students to gain life experiences before entering politics to enable them the insight into how decisions made in state parliament affect our everyday lives.

Students were interested to know if Ken liked his job he replied “I don’t like my job, I love my job. Its hard work but it’s enjoyable. You don’t do a job for twenty years if you don’t enjoy it’.

Concluding his presentation, Ken asked the students what new law they would introduce if they had the chance. Speaking on behalf of the group year 7 student, Lachlan, cheekily replied “more money, and a Ferrari for everybody!”