I think you've got your wires crossed Mooze. She wasn't 'deserate' to care for the child, she just wanted to get home Thursday night as opposed to Friday morning.
The child's condition worsened as the week went on, so she asked for a pair on Tuesday. She wanted an early minute so she could catch the last plane from Canberra to Sydney. She working all day. If she hung around for the Budget Reply, she wouldn't have been home until Friday morning. I hardly think it's an unreasonable request.
And a mum who wants to be with a sick child is a negative stereotype? I think that's a bit harsh Mooze. Best you get the facts before going on another rant.
Because the distance from Canberra to Sydney is huge - couldn't possibly have found another way home Thursday night? Please! She spent more time talking to media over it than it would have taken her to hire a car and drive home.
I'm with Mooze - all a stunt to make the opposition look family unfriendly.