NEW YEAR MESSAGE

BILL SHORTEN, LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION: Happy New Year everybody.

 

I really hope you get time to celebrate with the people you love. 

 

2017 certainly had its share of challenges, but at every turn Aussies have showed their courage and their kindness.

 

From the remarkable efforts of our emergency services personnel, right through to the bravery and the resilience of carers and nurses, teachers and doctors.

 

There is the courage of small business owners taking risks and creating jobs.

 

The courage of our farmers out there in the bush.

 

Then of course, there's the courage of the First Australians, whom we owe a better deal.

 

And of course, there is the courage of LGBTI Australians, who stood up and finally earned the equality they have long deserved.

 

Australians deserve a government that is as bold, as brave and as optimistic as the Australian people. 

 

So in 2018 I promise you that my team will be bold, brave and optimistic with our policies:

 

To help families deal with the cost of living and out of control energy prices;

We'll help young people afford a first home;

We're going to make sure our kids get the best start in life with the best possible education;
And of course, we're going to keep Medicare strong, for all Australians

 

I wish every Australian a safe and happy start to 2018.