Dutton spruiks ‘greatest gift’ for Aussies in New Year message

Peter Dutton has wished the nation a happy new year in an address reflecting on “the greatest gift” Australians can expect in 2025.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has released his New Year’s message to Australians, promising they would in 2025 “exercise the greatest gift democracy affords”.

In a video message on Tuesday, Mr Dutton said many Australians would be reflecting on the year that was.

“Events that shocked us, athletes who inspired us, heroes who awed us and people defending freedom against those who would harm us.”

The Liberal Party leader’s message comes after he hit back at the PM for a since-deleted meme of his wife posted by the Victorian Labor Party.

“2025, of course, is a federal election year,” Mr Dutton said, “and Australia will exercise the greatest gift democracy affords: The privilege of having a say in determining the future of our great country.”

Peter Dutton has delivered his New Year’s Eve message to Australians. Picture: Sky News

Anthony Albanese also wished the nation a happy new year in his ownNew Year’s Day message spruiking Australia as “the greatest country in the world”.

In a video message released on Tuesday, the Prime Minister said he hoped people had been able to kick back over the festive season and thanked those who powered through it.

“Happy New Year, Australia. I hope you’ve had a chance to relax and celebrate with loved ones and friends,” Mr Albanese said.

“For those who have worked through the break from our Australian Defence Force to emergency service and health workers, to people in hospitality and retail, thank you for the sacrifices that you’ve made.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is facing a tough federal election in 2025. Picture: Screengrab

Last year was a tough slog for many Australians, with cost of living pressures top-of-mind.

End of year polling showed 2024 turned out worse than many expected going into it.

But Mr Albanese struck an optimistic tone for 2025, even as the upcoming federal election has his political future on the line.

“We live in the greatest country in the world,” he said.

“And in the year ahead, with new determination and renewed optimism, we can build an even stronger Australia together.

“I wish you all a safe, happy and prosperous 2025.”

Originally published as Dutton spruiks ‘greatest gift’ for Aussies in New Year message