Premier's Australia Day 2010 Message
Australian families yet again demonstrated their immense capacity to weather the challenges brought by 2009.
The global financial crisis, drought, fire and floods have not dampened our strength or optimism.
This is what makes us unique and resilient as Australians, and will ensure we continue to prosper as a democratic nation.
We know how to work together, how to support each other in the best traditions of mateship, loyalty and compassion.
As NSW leads the economic recovery, Australia Day 2010 is an occasion for celebration.
Celebrating our national and international achievements in sport, theatre, arts, education, business, and youth.
Celebrating our multiculturalism – the 210 languages we speak across the State and the cultural traditions that enrich us and our lives.
It is an occasion for reflection.
Reflection on the impact of global conflict, famine, poverty, and climate change on more vulnerable peoples and communities around the world.
And a day to give thanks.
Thanks for how lucky we are to be part of a cohesive and prosperous nation where opportunity is accessible to all. Where we understand the values of fairness and can aspire, and reach, higher standards in our lifetimes.
Today on Australia Day we can acknowledge our Indigenous beginnings, our decades as a penal colony, our growth, off the back of wonderful and colourful cultures and individuals, into the peaceful, prosperous, healthy and democratic nation we are.
Today we remember why each of us is lucky to be Australian
Kristina Keneally
NSW Premier
