A Toowoomba teenager’s story about the power of reading has been shared in the Australian Parliament, shining a national spotlight on the impact of literacy programs.
Fourteen-year-old Charlotte MacManus, a Fairholme College student, wrote about how reading changed her life – and why every child deserves the same transformative opportunity to discover the joy of books.
Federal Member for Groom, Garth Hamilton delivered Charlotte’s words in Parliament on Tuesday, after hearing her story at the launch of the Parliamentary Friends of Children’s Literacy in Canberra.
“Charlotte reminded us that reading aloud to children isn’t just a nice extra – it’s the foundation for education, belonging and confidence,” Mr Hamilton said.
Charlotte’s journey began with challenges. Diagnosed as dyslexic, she struggled to read until her parents and teachers built daily habits around reading aloud.
She writes of another local girl, “Millie”, born just a day apart, whose life took a different path due to circumstance – not ability.
Charlotte wrote:
“The only difference between us is opportunity, not ability,”
“Access to literacy should not be down to the luck of the cards you are dealt and the family you are given; it should be a guaranteed birthright of every child.”
Mr Hamilton praised The Lighthouse Toowoomba for its work supporting children like Charlotte and “Millie,” giving them access to books, safe spaces and creative expression.
“The Lighthouse is doing remarkable work in our community, and all levels of government need to step up and support community-led initiatives,” he said.
“They’re proving that when you give every child the chance to read, you’re giving them the chance to thrive.”
Mr Hamilton said he would continue to champion The Lighthouse’s message – that literacy is a national issue with deeply local roots.
“Every child. Every day. Every book. That’s a goal worth standing for,” he said.
ENDS.
VIEW THE SPEECH HERE: https://youtu.be/VmOuRqMFsbk
Media Contact: Greta Dwan 0414 211 908