OFFICIAL STATEMENTS

This year we thank men and women who entertain and capture our attention, produce and gather news, and who build and develop our communication networks. 

We pay tribute to Australians working in the entertainment, arts, media and IT industries, and celebrate their continuing contribution to society, and reflection of our way of life. 

It is also a time to express our sincere appreciation for the deeds of charity workers and dedicated members of our community who assisted with disaster recovery efforts across our nation - we thank you. 

I join all Australians in sending my gratitude for the wonderful work you do. 

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

The National Day of Thanksgiving on 28 May provides an opportunity for Australian faith communities to express their gratitude for the bounty and goodness of this land we share, to intercede for the future, and to prayerfully acknowledge those who serve our nation. 

In 2011, the National Day of Thanksgiving especially upholds those involved in entertainment, arts, media and information technology - professions that can so greatly enrich our lives and better inform our community. 

It is also an appropriate occasion to consider the courage and generosity of those who responded so magnificently to the devastating floods, bushfires and cyclones that ravaged our country over recent months.  We are indeed privileged to have such selfless individuals in our midst. 

The National Day of Thanksgiving is, above all, a reminder that religious belief still plays an integral role in our society, and faith commitment is a precious and valued part of many Australians' lives. 

I sincerely acknowledge the importance of this Day and the spirit of care and concern it represents for the wellbeing of our nation and its people. 

The Honourable Julia Gillard MP
Prime Minister of Australia

Since its inception in 2004, the National Day of Thanksgiving has been an important gesture of appreciation to people whose community work often goes unacknowledged. 

Saying thank you is a simple act, but one often overlooked. 

This year, I would like to thank all the volunteers around Australia who assisted with the disaster recovery efforts.  While we saw the worst from mother nature, we saw the best from human nature.  Australia suffered an unprecedented summer of natural disasters.  The outpouring of community support has helped so many come back from the brink of despair. 

I also wish to thank the volunteers who generously sacrifice their time and effort to make the National Day of Thanksgiving a successful event and encourage all Australians to support this worthwhile initiative. 

The Honourable Tony Abbott MP
Leader of the Opposition