OFFICIAL STATEMENTS

A wonderful part of my role is the opportunity to say thank you; to the brave men and women of our Australian Defence Force, to the thousands of volunteers supporting our citizens, our communities, our way of life. 

On this day we pause to acknowledge the contributions of Australians everywhere and say 'thank you' for the help, support and service they give every day. 

In 2012 we especially thank the staff of our Local Councils and their elected officials who are leading voices in our communities.  We are indebted to them for their essential work - from the early risers collecting kerbside rubbish, to the maintenance of playing fields that lie at the heart of our local sporting clubs. 

This year we also remember the important work of chaplains throughout the community and thank them for their continued understanding, comfort and listening in good times and bad.  Their words have an encouraging presence in many lives; at work, with family, and in the community. 

Today, I join all Australians in marking our National Day of Thanksgiving.  We have so much to be grateful for. 

Ms Quentin Bryce AC
Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia

The National Day of Thanksgiving is a wonderful opportunity to remember the importance of saying thank you and is a reminder of just how much we value the contribution and generosity of others. 

I am delighted that this year, there will be special recognition for the people working with local councils.  We all benefit from the wide variety of work undertaken by local councils.  As I travel around the country, including to communities devastated by natural disasters, I am able to see the special contribution that local government staff make, particularly when extraordinary effort is required. 

I am also pleased to see that chaplains will be honoured as part of this year's National Day of Thanksgiving.  The support that they offer people in their time of need is hughly appreciated, both by the people concerned and their families, and they deserve special thanks. 

The National Day of Thanksgiving is a day to recognise and thank the people in our lives who offer us guidance, inspiration, strength and support.  I encourage all Australians to think about the people making a positive difference in their lives and to offer them our heartfelt gratitude. 

The Honourable Julia Gillard MP
Prime Minister of Australia

As Australians, we have much to be thankful for.  We live in a great country full of inspiring people. 

Since its inception in 2004, the National Day of Thanksgiving has given Australians the chance to say thank you to members of our community whose hard work often goes unacknowledged. 

This year, I pay tribute to everyone who does great work at the local level, particularly those who play an important role in our day-to-day living: such as the staff of our local councils who keep our suburbs, public gardens and local roads clean and accessible.  There are also those who provide spiritual support and nourishment, particularly at time of need, such as the chaplains in our schools, hospitals, and emergency services. 

As we mark the National Day of Thanksgiving I acknowledge the contribution of the volunteers who make it possible. 

I encourage all Australians to support this national day and join with them in thanking everyone who helps Australians to be at our best. 

Yours sincerely

The Honourable Tony Abbott MP
Leader of the Opposition