On January 26 Australians around the nation and those living around the world will reflect on what it is to be part of our great nation.
Every Australian, from our First Australians to the newest sworn in citizen and everyone in-between, should be proud to be part of or our great nation.
And this great nation has much to celebrate. Above all, we should celebrate the fact that no matter our birth place, we are united in our Australian values.
While we recognise the complexities and the challenges of our history on Australia Day, we also recognise the greatness of our achievements as a united Australia. January 26 is a day to unite us, not divide us. It is a day to reflect on our history not turn our back on it.
For me, this day represents where we have come from and what we have become. What it is to be Australian; to work hard, to contribute to community, a sense of mateship, of belonging and of prosperity. This truly is a nation of freedom and opportunity. To strive to better ourselves while at the same time supporting others through times of need.
As a country we have grown to become a great nation of which and we should all be rightly proud.
Happy Australia Day!
