Australia Day is a time to celebrate what's great about Australia. It is an occasion, more than any other, when we express our national pride in our distinctive landscape, our diverse society and our unique lifestyle.Each year on 26 January, we are reminded of what it means to be Australian, sharing a sense of community, a mood of optimism and a commitment to the fair go. In this spirit, we extend a warm welcome to our new citizens who will pledge their loyalty to Australia and its people in 2008.
This is also a time to recognise outstanding contributions to the life of the nation. Through the Australian of the Year Awards, we spotlight the extraordinary achievements of ordinary Australians.
On Australia Day 2008, we have cause for celebration and time for reflection. I encourage all Australians, across the country and around the world, to consider the contribution each of us can make to this great nation of ours.
The Honourable Kevin Rudd MP
Prime Minister of Australia
"Lord, I praise You for the privilege of being an Australian citizen, but more than this, I'm ever so grateful that I'm a citizen of Heaven through my relationship with Jesus Christ!"
TODAY'S PRAYER FOCUS
Captain Debbie Messenger who serves as administrator of the Joyville Children's Home in The Philippines.
