Today at an Oxi Day ceremony in Marrickville, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese joined the Greek community with Archbishop Makarios and laid a wreath to honour the 82nd Anniversary of an act of defiance to defend Greek sovereignty that reverberated around the world.

Oxi Day celebrates standing up for what is right and good, even in the face of adversity. In our pursuit of freedom, the inspiring struggle of 1940 reminds us we must dedicate ourselves to do all we can to keep peace in our world.

As we mark Oxi Day, we remember that the fortitude and sacrifices of the men and women of 1940 was a stride towards the freedom Greece enjoys today. 

Many postwar Greek migrants to Australia brought with them the memory of Oxi Day, and the ensuing trauma of war.

Their courage and determination was the bedrock on which they built new lives in a new land. Our nation continues to be enriched by the strength, history and heritage of a vibrant Greek community.