Happy New Year Australia.

I hope you’ve had the chance to celebrate with friends and loved ones.

There’s no doubt 2023 was a challenging year.

Yet, right around our country, Australians rose to meet those challenges – as they always do.

We achieved a great deal as a nation – and we achieved it together.

That is the Australian spirit.

In these times of global uncertainty, it’s worth reflecting on what we have as a nation.

We are a people of optimism, determination and, above all, fairness.

We have the unique privilege of being home to the oldest continuous culture in the world.

And our society has been enriched and enlarged by people of every faith, background and tradition.

We have so much to cherish.

Let that guide us in 2024 as we make the greatest country on Earth even better.

All the very best to you and loved ones for a safe and happy year.