A first meeting between Dr Parwinder Kaur MLC and Gurmesh Singh MP has brought together two parliamentarians whose journeys mark significant milestones for Sikh representation in Australian politics.
Sharing the moment on her Facebook page, Dr Kaur described the meeting as an opportunity to reflect on their shared heritage and commitment to public service, despite representing different states and political parties.
Singh, the Member for Coffs Harbour and Leader of the NSW Nationals, was elected to the NSW Parliament in 2019, becoming Australia’s first parliamentarian of Sikh heritage. Dr Kaur made history in 2025 as the first Sikh woman elected to an Australian Parliament, representing WA Labor in Western Australia’s Legislative Council.
In her post, Dr Kaur highlighted the Sikh principle of “ਸਰਬੱਤਦਾਭਲਾ” – Sarbat Da Bhala, expressing the aspiration for the wellbeing and prosperity of all.
She reflected on this principle as a shared foundation for serving the community, emphasising that public service can transcend political differences and contribute to the collective good.
While their political affiliations and constituencies differ, Dr Kaur’s reflections centred on the connections between cultural heritage, community responsibility and participation in Australian democracy.
The meeting also offered a moment to recognise the significance of representation for younger Australians, particularly those from migrant and multicultural backgrounds who may aspire to public life.
Dr Kaur described their journeys as reflecting an Australia where heritage is celebrated, diversity strengthens democracy and opportunities continue to expand for future generations.
For Australia’s Sikh community, the encounter brought together two distinct parliamentary journeys connected by heritage and a commitment to serving the wider Australian community.
