Mike Baird's emotional public moment during election policy forum

(SMH) March 4, 2015 -

 (Translation of this article appears in Arabic section)

Premier Mike Baird gets emotional during a speech at a pre-election "Make it Count" event at the Village Church in Annandale. Photo: Sahlan Hayes

NSW Premier Mike Baird was overcome with emotion and appeared to wipe away tears as he discussed the plight of homeless and disadvantaged youth during an election policy forum on Tuesday night.

Addressing several hundred people at an Australian Christian Lobby event at the Village Church in Annandale, Mr Baird's voice suddenly gave way and he struggled to keep his composure while reflecting on the work of organisations supporting youth in crisis.

"I've had the opportunity to see [these] youth services," Mr Baird told the audience.

Premier Mike Baird (centre) at a pre-election "Make it Count" event for homeless and disadvantaged youth at the Village Church in Annandale. Photo: Sahlan Hayes

"And in a faith context, as we know, every single person matters. Every single person."

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"And I've seen ... I've seen kids ... who've ... you know life would say to them ... you're worth nothing…"

"They do [matter] ... We have unbelievable services across this state that tell them that."

Mentors on a mission: Layne Beachley and Mike Baird in the Northern Territory during a trek with eight teenagers who had overcome homelessness as part of Project Uplift. Photo: Supplied

Mr Baird said he "can't think of anything more important … than telling these kids that they do."

Recovering, Mr Baird asked the audience to "Imagine being in a position where you can make a difference for them."

Last year, Mr Baird trekked through the Northern Territory with eight teenagers who had overcome homelessness as part of Project Uplift, a program connecting troubled youth with mentors.

The Oasis Youth Support Network, Youth Off the Streets, Southern Youth Family Services in Wollongong and Brookvale Youth Reach were involved.

Joining them on the trek were former premier Nathan Rees, rock star Kirk Pengilly, surfer Layne Beachley, Westpac Chief Executive Gail Kelly, art gallery boss Elizabeth Ann Macgregor, businessman Tim Pickles and author Jock Cameron.

Reflecting on the difficulties of being in government, Mr Baird said: "They're the sort of opportunities that make all the difficulties and all the challenges worthwhile."

Mr Baird had earlier discussed the role of Christianity in public life and his approach to getting the state's finances in order to allow the government the opportunity to provide services, improve infrastructure and also protect the vulnerable in society.

He spoke of difficult decisions he has had to make, including cutting the public service by 15,000.

"There's no easy path to this," he said. "I can assure you I've wrestled with that. You have to take some decisions which are difficult for individuals but you're also trying to look in terms of the long term".

Opposition Leader Luke Foley also spoke at the event.

Mr Foley, a Catholic, told the audience that "the Christian voice in the public square is based on a concern for the common good" that stems from the "golden rule" of treating others as you would have them treat you.

"The concept of universal ethics ... says there is a search for a virtuous life and there is a desire to do good and avoid evil - it's a natural law, if you like," he said.

"For me, that has always anchored my involvement in public life. Do unto others as you would want done unto you".