The prime minister and opposition leader have released their Christmas messages, wishing Australians relaxed and happy holidays and thanking emergency services and defence personnel for their ongoing service.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese made particular mention of people who were working on Christmas Day.
"Of course, not everyone gets to take it easy today. If you’re rostered on somewhere, I want to say thank you for your service to others," he said.
"If you’re working because you've volunteered your time to make Christmas better for your fellow Australians — whether you’re serving lunch to those in need or you’re keeping our beaches safe — I want to express my gratitude and my admiration.
"The same goes to all our emergency service workers, and of course all Australian Defence Force personnel, whether they’re serving here or far from home overseas. Thank you to every single one of you."
This year will be the first since 2019 that COVID-19 border closures, lockdowns or outbreaks have not disrupted the holiday period.
But many Australians are still dealing with the devastation caused by recent flooding, while others in South Australia are preparing for flood peaks in the coming days.
Areas of the Northern Territory are also under a cyclone warning as former tropical cyclone Ellie dumps heavy rain after crossing the territory's coast overnight.
Yesterday, the prime minister said he would be thinking of people in those areas and the federal government would continue to talk to, and assist, state and territory governments facing the disasters.
"So while this is a time for celebration, it's also a time many people will find difficult," he said.
"At this time of the year, people will go through a reliving of the difficult period, whether it be the loss of loved ones, many people do feel isolated.
"This is an opportunity for people to reach out to their neighbours, to reach out to their communities, and to engage and make sure that no-one feels alone at this important time."
Dutton acknowledges 'difficult year'
In his Christmas message Opposition Leader Peter Dutton acknowledged some of the turbulent moments of 2022, including the death of Queen Elizabeth II, the Medibank data hack and the widespread flooding that devastated many areas of the country.
"During Christmas, I hope all Australians have time to rest and to celebrate with family and friends," he said.
"In the Christian spirit, please reach out to those that you know who may be without loved ones so that they don't have a lonely Christmas.
"Whilst it's been a difficult year, it's the Australian way that we show gratitude for what we have. Christmas is a time for Australians to again express thanks for how lucky we are to live in the best country in the world."
Mr Dutton also thanked all emergency services personnel, but particularly members of the Australian Defence Force serving at home and abroad.
