STATEMENT: Lunar New Year - Year of the Dog

On behalf of the Federal Labor Party, I’d like to extend my best wishes to everyone celebrating Lunar New Year – Year of the Dog.

Every year, millions of people in Australia and around the world from different Asian countries and regions celebrate the beginning of the Lunar Calendar with renewed hope and commitment to family and loved ones.

The Year of the Dog symbolises loyalty, friendship and kindness - characteristics that define our modern multicultural society and act as a bond that unites our diverse cultures, faiths and communities into one story- our Australian story.

Lunar New Year is a time to pay homage to ancestors, visit family, exchange gifts and share wishes for a prosperous year ahead.

As the lions and dragons dance in festivity this year, in my local community and elsewhere, and in the spirit of loyalty and friendship, I wish you all great success and prosperity.