Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has used his first Christmas address to express his “gratitude and admiration” for one group of Australians.
On December 25, Mr Albanese wished a Merry Christmas to all Australians as a day for “giving”, “relaxing” and a day that is “central” to the faith of many.
“Whatever form Christmas Day takes for you, may it be a very happy one. And may Santa be good to every child,” he said.
The Prime Minister also took a moment to acknowledge the Australians who are unable to spend time with their families on Sunday.
“Of course, not everyone gets to take it easy today,” he said.
“If you’re rostered on somewhere, I want to say thank you for your service to others.
“If you’re working because you’ve volunteered your time to make Christmas better for your fellow Australians – whether you’re serving lunch to those in need or you’re keeping our beaches safe – I want to express my gratitude and my admiration.
“The same goes to all our emergency service workers, and of course all Australian Defence Force personnel, whether they’re serving here, or far from home overseas.
“Thank you to every single one of you.”
Opposition leader Peter Dutton joined him in thanking the millions of Australians who are giving their time to keep us safe this holidays.
“I want to say a very big thank you to the emergency service workers, to police, to first responders, to volunteers, and to the men and women of the Australian Defence Force,” he said.
“Not only helping so many Australians during the floods – but also for all of those who will be on duty during Christmas at home and abroad.”
He also reflected on the past year, noting the cost of living pressures and the ongoing issues with flooding across the nation.
“While we saw off the worst of the pandemic, cost of living pressures continue to hurt families and small businesses across the nation,” Dutton said.
“Millions of our fellow citizens had their personal data compromised in the hacks on Optus and Medibank.
“Many Australians have experienced the darkest of days with floods damaging or destroying their properties and tragically, of course, a number of families lost loved ones. Communities will continue to require our assistance and government assistance in the coming months and years ahead.”
He went on to encourage Aussies to reach out to those that who may be without loved ones “so that they don’t have a lonely Christmas”.
“Whilst it’s been a difficult year, it’s the Australian way that we show gratitude for what we have. Christmas is a time for Australians to again express thanks for how lucky we are to live in the best country in the world.”