In his New Year’s address released on Wednesday, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has encouraged Australians to cherish the qualities that define the nation as “the best country on Earth,” while acknowledging the profound grief following the recent terror attack at Bondi Beach.
Extending New Year wishes as the country transitions into 2026, Albanese noted that the typical celebrations are overshadowed by sorrow.
“Right now, the joy we usually feel at the start of a new year is tempered by the sadness of the old,” he said in the video message.
“Our hearts ache for every life lost and every life changed forever following the terror inflicted on Jewish Australians at Bondi Beach.”
The attack, which occurred just over two weeks ago, marked Australia’s deadliest terrorist incident. Gunmen targeted a Hanukkah celebration, killing 15 people, injuring dozens, and straining the nation’s multicultural bonds.
Albanese highlighted the positive response to the tragedy as a reflection of “the best of the Australian spirit, in all its courage and compassion.”
He expressed optimism for the year ahead: “That is why I’m determined that in the New Year we will rise to meet the challenges ahead in the same way Australians always do—by working together and looking after each other.”
“No matter what the world throws at us, we will keep doing things our way, stay true to who we are, and hold on to everything that makes us the best country on Earth.”
The Prime Minister emphasised national unity: “Whether we’re here by birth or by choice, we are all proudly Australian, united by our generosity, our resilience, and our abiding sense of fairness.”
He celebrated Australia’s diversity, noting it is enriched by “the world’s oldest continuous culture” and contributions from people of every background through their dedication and ambitions.
Concluding on an uplifting note, Albanese described the “Australian story” as “beautifully distinctive.”
“In 2026, we will write the next chapter,” he said. “We’ll do it in a positive way, and we’ll do it together.”
