AUSTRALIA DAY 2008 – PM RUDD CALLS FOR NATIONAL CELEBRATION

Australia’s Prime Minister, Mr Kevin Rudd, has called on all Australians to celebrate their National Day – Australia Day, 26 January.

Each year, the special day commemorates the establishment of the first European settlement in Australia with the unfurling of the British flag at Sydney in 1788.

Mr Rudd said that 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,” he said.

“Each year 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.”

Mr Rudd said that the day was 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,” he added.

Australia Day celebrations would begin in Canberra with the Australia Day Live concert, an event that captures the energy and enthusiasm of Australia Day festivities everywhere.

“On Australia Day 2008, we have cause for celebration and time for reflection,” Mr Rudd said.

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.”