On behalf of Federal Labor, I wish all Australians a happy, safe and successful new year.

 

Wherever you are and however you are celebrating, I hope you get a chance to spend some time with the people you love.

 

This is a time to look back at what we’ve achieved in 2014, and look ahead to the challenges in 2015.

 

Too often in 2014, tragedy touched our lives, and the resolve of the Australian people was tested.

 

In times of horror, shock and grief, we came together.

 

We refused to give in to adversity, or surrender to ignorance and intolerance.

 

We responded to division with unity; to fear with strength.

 

In our darkest moments, Australians displayed the best of the human spirit.

 

In 2015, Labor will continue to stand up for ordinary people and fight for a fairer Australia.

 

We’ll keep fighting for good jobs, accessible healthcare and affordable education.

 

We’ll keeping fighting the Government’s cost of living increases through cuts to child care, cuts to pensions and unfair taxes.

 

We’ll keep supporting the march of Australian women through the institutions of power, and we’ll keep providing a strong voice for our regions.

 

We will keep talking to Australians about our vision for their future. And most importantly, we will keep listening.

 

I’m also determined to use this new year to finally resolve a process to recognise our first Australians in the Constitution.

 

This is the challenge of our generation, and one we cannot abdicate.

 

And in a few months, all Australians will pause to commemorate the centenary of the Anzac landing at Gallipoli.

 

We will honour the thousands who fell on those fatal shores, and the thousands more who have since paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country.

 

And we’ll be reminded that Australia’s best hope has always been its people.

 

Best wishes to you and your family for 2015.

 

 

WEDNESDAY 31 DECEMBER 2014

 

MEDIA CONTACT: GERARD RICHARDSON 0427 349 655