It’s been a challenging year for many Australians battling rising costs and natural disasters.
The nation’s political leaders struck a sombre tone in their annual Christmas messages today while giving thanks to frontline staff working through the holiday.
“May all Australians have a happy and joyous Christmas and a safe one,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.
“We express our gratitude to everyone whose giving up their Christmas for the sake of others.
“Our emergency personnel and Australian Defence Force members, whether here or overseas, our medical workers our hospitality and those who give up for others through charities.”
He noted “many Australians are doing it tough”, including those cleaning up after the devastating floods in Far North Queensland, saying they are “are in our thoughts.”
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton also noted the efforts of those working over Christmas.
The leaders recalled those killed in tragedies this year.
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There were 10 people killed in a wedding bus crash in the NSW Hunter Valley, and the Sea World chopper crash claimed four lives on the Gold Coast.
Seven months later, a military helicopter went down in the Whitsundays killing four Australian Defence Force airmen.
“We’re thinking of those families who lost loved ones in tragedies this year,” Dutton said.
Dutton also referred to the cost of living amid record rises in prices and interest rates.
“There are a lot of families across the country who are doing it tough this Christmas,” he said.
Cost of living pressures and the heavy defeat of the Voice referendum have damaged the prime minister politically.
He’s hinted he’ll be pulling out new policies in the lead up to the budget, offering relief to households under strain.
