Anthony Albanese’s plea for unity on Australia Day

Anthony Albanese has urged Australians to unite and have faith in each other, after a tumultuous and divisive summer following the nation’s worst terrorist attack.

The Prime Minister has grappled with the fallout from the Bondi Beach massacre which claimed the lives of 15 innocent people on December 14.

Leaders have warned of a need to strengthen social cohesion in the wake of the attack.

In his Australia Day message, Mr Albanese conceded the past month had “tested” the country, but encouraged Australians to reflect on the acts of kindness and courage that defined the nation’s character.

“On Australia Day, we come together to celebrate everything that unites us as a nation and makes us the best country on Earth,” he said.

“We look back on the fullness and richness of our history, recognising what an extraordinary privilege it is to share this continent with the oldest, continuous culture, in all its wisdom and its resilience, and we look forward to the future we want for the next generation of Australians.

“Because at the very heart of our national identity is our shared determination and our collective responsibility to make our country stronger and fairer for those who will follow us.

“Whether your ancestors have known and cared for this land for 65,000 years, or whether you join our Australian family today, pledging your loyalty to our people and our democracy, at citizenship ceremonies right around our nation.”

And while Australians counted themselves lucky to call Australia home, Mr Albanese added what was beloved about nation was “not the result of luck”.

“It has been built, defended and strengthened over generations by countless acts of service, courage and kindness, by people working together and caring for each other, that’s the Australian way,” he said.

“And whilst this summer has tested our nation once again, as ever in the worst of times, we have seen the very best of the Australian character, as we draw inspiration from that truth.

“Let us look to the year ahead, united by pride in our country and faith in each other.”

Sussan Ley also used her Australia Day address to promote a message of unity, declaring: “What unites us as Australians is far greater than anything that could ever divide us”.

The Opposition Leader, speaking at an event in Corowa – known as the birthplace of Federation – urged Australians to reflect on what made the nation special, saying: “ … our nation was built by people who believed in working together, shaping our future and taking responsibility for it.”

“That spirit still defines Australia. Australia is the best country in the world,” she said.

“And Australia Day is the day we come together to celebrate who we are, what we share, and the freedoms and opportunities that bind us as Australians.”

This year’s Australia Day carried a “deeper meaning” in the wake of the Bondi massacre, Ms Ley said, before adding the terror attack had “shaken the nation to its core”.

“It tested our sense of safety and left families grieving in ways no one should ever have to endure,” she said.

“But even in that darkness, we saw something powerful. Australians ran toward danger to help strangers.

“They comforted the wounded. They stood shoulder to shoulder and made clear that hatred and violence will never define who we are. That is the true Australia.”

She later added: “Our future, like our past, will be shaped by Australians who believe in this nation, who care for their communities, and who are prepared to do their part.