The thoughts of Australians are with the people of Japan at this difficult time. We are saddened to see the loss of life and destruction following yesterday’s earthquakes. As close friends, we stand ready to support Japan to provide any necessary assistance”.
Happy New Year Australia.
I hope you’ve had the chance to celebrate with friends and loved ones.
There’s no doubt 2023 was a challenging year.
Yet, right around our country, Australians rose to meet those challenges – as they always do.
We achieved a great deal as a nation – and we achieved it together.
That is the Australian spirit.
In these times of global uncertainty, it’s worth reflecting on what we have as a nation.
We are a people of optimism, determination and, above all, fairness.
ANTHONY ALBANESE, PRIME MINISTER: Well, it is wonderful to be here with Bill Crews at the Exodus Foundation in the heartland of the Inner West of Sydney. Today, about 4,000 people will receive meals on Christmas Day. But also, hundreds of children will receive presents. This is an amazing event that I've been coming to for two decades now. And it's incredibly uplifting. This is the spirit of Christmas, right here in Ashfield. And I do want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas, and all the best for 2024.
I’d like to wish everyone a very merry Christmas.
For so many Australians, this is a chance to rest.
To spend time with our family, catch-up with friends, and to cherish the memories of those no longer with us.
And for Christians, this is a holy time.
In this time of celebration and reflection, we express our gratitude to everyone who’s giving up their Christmas for the sake of others.
ANTHONY ALBANESE, PRIME MINISTER: I just want to thank all of the businesses, tourism operators, local government, people who met with us here today to talk firsthand and inform us about the challenges ahead for this community. Which though I have great confidence that the people and businesses of tropical North Queensland will not only survive, they'll thrive into the future. The resilience that we've seen from communities in places like Holloways Beach this morning was quite extraordinary.
The Albanese and Miles Governments have announced a fourth round of support to help recovery and resilience for Far North Queensland communities impacted by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper.
The package, estimated to cost $64 million will be cost-shared 50-50 by the Federal and State Governments. It will support recovery for FNQ’s vital tourism industry, farmers, small businesses and not for profits. It includes:
CATHIE SCHNITZERLING, HOST: The recovery and cleanup in Far North Queensland is well underway. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has travelled to Cairns to inspect the damage and he will also announce more support for local businesses, farmers and councils, as well as a tourism recovery package. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is on line. Prime Minister, you've seen your fair share of natural disasters over the years. Have you been shocked by this one?
PETER STEFANOVIC, HOST: Prime Minister, good to see you. Thanks for your time on a busy morning, I know you've got a bit on.
ANTHONY ALBANESE, PRIME MINISTER: Good morning, Pete.
STEFANOVIC: So far, what's your assessment of the damage that you've seen?
EMMA ROBELLATO, HOST: I am very pleased to say Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is in Cairns this morning and he joins us now on ABC News Breakfast. Prime Minister, thanks for joining us this morning.
ANTHONY ALBANESE, PRIME MINISTER: Good morning, Emma.
ROBELLATO: Well, you've seen a lot of the pictures like we all have at a Far North Queensland. You've had the briefings. What are you expecting to see on the ground today?
DAVID CAMPBELL, HOST: Prime Minister, we know we're going to speak to you about Far North Queensland in a second, but we just wanted to touch on Prague, this horrible situation that's unfolded. What assistance is available to Aussies who might be caught up in the Prague situation?