Federal Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien today encouraged residents of Wide Bay to join together in celebrating Australia Day on Thursday, January 26.
“Australia Day is a time to show pride in our great country, and celebrate those great Aussie attributes of mateship, tenacity and optimism,” Mr O’Brien said.
“I’m proud to be Australian. I love the peaceful country that I grew up in, and I am proud to have served the Australian people first in my career as a police officer, and now as Member for Wide Bay.
“Our country’s strength lies in our people – our compassion, innovation, our love of the freedom inherent in our Aussie lifestyle.
“In a time of global uncertainty, Australians have all the more reason to be thankful for our fortune. We live in a country of hard workers, which remains unspoiled by warfare, conflict or oppression.
“Australia Day is a day to acknowledge all Australians, from our traditional land owners through to new arrivals.
“Multiculturalism has a vital role to play in our country’s continued growth and success, and we must also acknowledge that many Australians have genuine concerns about the safety of our borders and the threat of terrorism. I share these concerns and want to make sure our nation is safe and secure, and all Australians are protected.
“We live in one of the most naturally beautiful environments in the country, and Australia Day is a fantastic opportunity to get out and explore the region. It’s also a time to reflect on the importance of community, and take part in one of the many community celebrations around the Wide Bay.
“Whether you’re getting together with loved ones and friends at a public ceremony, or if you choose to relax at home, fly the Australian flag with pride, stay safe and enjoy the day with your fellow Australians.”
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Federal Member for Maranoa David Littleproud has also encouraged residents in his own electorate to celebrate Australia Day, but wants to see the rules surrounding Australian citizenship toughened up.
“In the lead-up to Australia Day this week I’ve found myself contemplating what it means to be Australian,” Mr Littleproud said.
“Australian citizenship should be cherished and entering, or remaining, in Australia is a privilege.
“We need to strengthen citizenship laws so they better align with Australian values. That’s why I strongly support a tougher citizenship test that would strengthen character requirements for any new potential Australian following concerns Australia’s short-term visa pathways could be exploited by terrorists seeking access to our country.
“Immigration Minister Peter Dutton has also flagged other reforms for consideration, including dropping the age at which good character provisions apply for citizenship from 18 to 16 years.
“If young people are breaking the law, I don’t think they deserve to part of our society.
“At the end of the day, we have secure borders that are envied by most European countries because of this government’s strong stance on border protection.
“These reforms are really about making sure Australia remains safe and I strongly support any move by this government to make our citizenship rules more robust.”
