The Prime Minister and Opposition Leader have wished Australians a Merry Christmas, as they acknowledge another tough year for the country.
Key points:
- The leaders have expressed hope for a better year ahead
- Scott Morrison paid tribute to the families in Devonport who lost their children
- Anthony Albanese expressed gratitude that families can reunite for Christmas
While the leaders spoke of another year enduring COVID-19, Prime Minister Scott Morrison opened his address with a reminder of the tragic deaths of six children in Tasmania last week.
"There are six families in Devonport in northern Tasmania, from the Hillcrest Primary School, this Christmas who are completely devastated and our thoughts are with them," Mr Morrison said.
"Everything they cherished in life was taken from them in a terrible instant. It's unimaginable, and so our hearts break for them.
"And this Christmas we'll shed a tear and raise up prayers for them, I believe, right across the country, for them, that they might find some measure of comfort in this hour of their terrible grief."
He also noted that many others would be having a difficult Christmas.
"As they grieve, many Australians will be gathering together for the first time this Christmas in a long time, but sadly not all," he said.
Mr Morrison said the nation was thinking of those who would be on their own this year, or would be missing someone no longer at the Christmas table.
'Off the Zoom and back in the room'
Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese kept his message brief, as he celebrated a chance for many Australians to again gather with their loved ones.
"Thanks to everyone for taking care of each other," Mr Albanese said.
"Australians have stood together and now, with our borders opening up again, we are getting back together, off the Zoom and actually back in the room with family, friends and loved ones.
Mr Morrison also expressed his optimism for the year ahead.
"This pandemic, it continues to buffet us, the Omicron variant is just the latest challenge that we have faced," Mr Morrison said.
"I could want for no greater gift than the spirit of the Australian people that's been on display, that have inspired and endured and cared and shown great courage."
Mr Morrison paid thanks in particular to health and service workers who would continue to work through Christmas, and to police and defence forces serving overseas.
The Prime Minister also wished that people of faith might find encouragement in Jesus Christ.
"May all those who need a refreshing after what has been a difficult year — by just having a good long laugh out loud, 'round that Christmas table with friends and family — may you find it."
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2021-12-24 06:03:17Z
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