‘Doing it tough’: Anthony Albanese tributes flood victims in Christmas message to Australians

Anthony Albanese says there will be “better times ahead” in 2024 as he paid tribute to flood victims in far north Queensland and the nation’s emergency service personnel in his end-of-year Christmas message.

Mr Albanese delivered his second holiday greeting as Prime Minister and said for many people the season was a chance to rest and spend time with loved ones.

He acknowledged that Christmas “wasn’t an easy time for everyone” and thanked Australians for their service.

“In this time of celebration and reflection, we express our gratitude to everyone who’s giving up their Christmas for the sake of others,” he said.

“In particular, our emergency personnel and Australian Defence Force members, whether here or overseas. Our medical workers and our hospitality and those who give up for others through charities.”

Mr Albanese recognised the challenges faced by hundreds of flood-affected communities in the wake of ex-tropical cyclone Jasper, which ripped through parts of the country’s far north earlier this week.

“I know many Australians are doing it tough at the moment, in particular those in Far North Queensland, dealing with the aftermath of the floods,” he said.

“To them I say, you are all in our thoughts. May better times be ahead.”

Federal opposition leader Peter Dutton used his own holiday message to recognise the millions of Australians struggling to make ends meet amid the nation’s cost-of-living crisis.

Despite financial strife, Mr Dutton said that people across the country have pressed on with “characteristic resilience” and thanked charity workers and volunteers who he said represents the best of society.

“2023 has been tough, but we should never forget that we live in the best country in the world, and that’s because of the Australian people,” he said.

Mr Dutton recognised the ongoing global conflicts in Ukraine and Israel and said displays of antisemitism on Australian soil “marked a low point in our nation’s history.”

He also paid tribute to recently deceased Australian comedian Barry Humphries, artist John Olivers and late Liberal Senator Jim Molan.