Opened the debate
Coffey argued that the defacement of Peter Drew's 'Aussie' posters represented a deliberate attempt to intimidate Australians of colour and challenge inclusive definitions of national identity. Coffey described how she and local residents, including neighbours Jacob and Scott, removed the racist material from walls in Brisbane, highlighting community solidarity against hate. Coffey connected the posters to the history of the White Australia policy and the dictation test, noting that the art challenges exclusionary narratives. Coffey stated that political leaders have a duty to foster unity rather than division, and she highlighted the contributions of migrants and refugees to the community. Coffey also referenced her long-standing opposition to racist politics, dating back to her youth, and affirmed that Griffith rejects such ideologies.