Malcolm Turnbull and Bill Shorten release Christmas messages

PRIME Minister Malcolm Turnbull has issued his Christmas messages to Australia, calling on everyone to “be there for each other” as Bill Shorten thanked the nation’s workers.

THIS Christmas Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull wants Australians to go out of their way to help a stranger and make this a special time of the year for everyone.

In his Christmas video posted to Twitter and Facebook on Sunday morning, the prime minister asked Australians to remember the homeless, those who are lonely, our emergency services and armed forces.

“Whatever you’re doing on Christmas this year, please remember those that need our love and support now more than any other time,” he said in the video.

“I hope you and your family are getting together and enjoying the day celebrating Christmas in that great Australian way.

Malcolm Turnbull in his annual Christmas message. Picture: Supplied/Facebook

“It could be having a BBQ, a beer, going to church, or playing a backyard Test Match with the kids.”

“Let’s be there for each other.”

Opposition leader Bill Shorten released his annual Christmas message too, also focusing on thanking Australia’s defence force and emergency service workers.

In the message, filmed with his wife Chloe Shorten, Mr Shorten said Christmas was a time to celebrate family.

“But while most of us will be enjoying a well-earned break, Chloe and I want to thank all those Australians who will be serving others,” he said.

“The brave men and women of our Australian Defence Forces, serving in the Middle East away from their families.

“We think of you and your families back home here in Australia.”

Chloe Shorten added thoughts towards firefighters, police offices and healthcare workers, “who at what should be a happy time, confront tragedy and disaster”, as well as those volunteering to help others.

“And let’s also spare a thought for those who are fighting their own battles against poverty, addiction, abuse or mental illness,” The Opposition leader said.

“And to all those Australians who will be working on Christmas Day for no other reason than they have got to help pay the bills, put food on the table — I just want to thank you.

“Without you, the rest of us couldn’t enjoy our Christmas Day and I thank you for your hard work.”

Originally published as Malcolm Turnbull and Bill Shorten release Christmas messages