Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott and wife Margie release Christmas message

PM TONY Abbott has released a Christmas message with a guest appearance by his wife, Margie. But what’s got her looking so glum?

PRIME Minister Tony Abbott has released his annual Christmas message with a guest appearance by his wife, Margie.

But what’s got Mrs Abbott looking so glum?

The couple paid tribute to families spending Christmas apart and those grieving for relatives in his annual Christmas message.

Mr Abbott said that while Christmas was a joyous occasion for many, it could be a sad time for some.

“This year, we are thinking of those families who have lost loved ones,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.

It’s been a tragic year for Australians in the news and while the Abbott’s don’t make any particular references, like the loss of 36 Australian citizens and residents in the MH17 tragedy or the recent siege in Martin Place, for some families it is no doubt a “sad time too”, as Mrs Abbott says.

“The last fortnight has been a heartbreaking time for our country,” Mr Abbott adds.

“The thoughts and prayers of everyone are with those who are grieving this Christmas.”

Ending on a smile. The Abbott’s wish Australians a Merry Christmas

He also paid tribute to the diggers who will spend Christmas away from families, and to farmers in drought.

And, he urged Australians to reach out to those who’d had a difficult year and to those doing it tough.

“True joy at Christmas comes from giving,” Mr Abbott said.