All Australians should have equal access to educational and economic opportunities regardless of where they are from, the descendant of Indian immigrants has told parliament.
Varun Ghosh used his first speech in the Senate to talk about his parents and family who were welcomed with "the spirit of generosity that defines Australia and Australians" when they migrated.
"This generosity is a source of my heartfelt optimism for the future of our nation," the Perth barrister said on Monday.
"We should all have an equal chance to realise our potential and to flourish.
"Where an Australian starts their life should not determine where they finish it."
Strong protections for workers, including stable work and job security, were needed to give people the best chance of success and the opportunity to participate in community and family life, Senator Ghosh said.
His time as a barrister had also showed him that the legal system could exacerbate economic and other power imbalances in society.
"In this place, which is tasked with making laws, we must endeavour to correct those imbalances," he said.
Senator Ghosh was officially sworn in on February 6.
He also reflected on the legacy left by his predecessor and Labor luminary Pat Dodson, who retired from politics this year for health reasons.
"I take heed of Senator Dodson's words in his first speech, 'all of us, regardless of race, culture, or gender, share a strong identity as Australians wanting to build a common, tolerant and prosperous future'," Senator Ghosh said.
Australian Associated Press
