Representatives from Trinity Catholic College, Goulburn, St Clare’s College, Griffith, and Lumen Christi Catholic College, Pambula Beach, recently attended a live recording of ABC’s ‘Q+A’ program at the Canberra Theatre.

Students had the opportunity to hear from Senator Jane Hume, Minister for Superannuation, Financial Services and the Digital Economy; Dr Jim Chalmers MP, Shadow Treasurer; Senator for Queensland, Larissa Waters and Senator for Tasmania, Jacqui Lambie, as they discussed the Federal Budget and current Australian issues.

Kate Van Landeghem, Lumen Christi Catholic College student, said it was exciting to experience an environment where every day Australians were encouraged to speak their minds on significant topics.

“The discussion highlighted the importance of young minds to Australia's political outlook, which I found particularly relevant looking towards my own future,” she said.

Lumen Christi student, Liliana Watters, said while the experience of sitting in the live audience was exciting, she was disappointed that she did not get a chance to ask the panelists her question on why funding for First Nations people was not included in the Federal Budget. Liliana had opportunity to speak to Paul West on ABC South East Radio giving her thoughts on tertiary education and the housing market.

“It was actually a really great opportunity, the experience of seeing them all in person, the whole dynamic of the show. The presenter was great and there was even live music before the show. It was a great experience,” Liliana said.