News
26 December, 2025
Politicians of all persuasions offer positive Christmas messages
Members of Parliament from across both divides in both State and Federal parties are spreading the good news of Christmas and a positive message going into a new year in 2026.
Members of Parliament from across both divides in both State and Federal parties are spreading the good news of Christmas and a positive message going into a new year in 2026.
State Member for Goulburn, Mrs Wendy Tuckerman said that the people of her electorate showed strength, compassion and resilience.
“As 2025 draws to a close, I am reflecting on a period that was marked by both deep sadness and genuine pride in the Australia and community that we love,” she said.
“Throughout 2025 I continue to see the strength, compassion, and resilience that define our nation. We are all horrified by the terror attack on Bondi, and I am heartbroken for all those impacted. I sincerely extended my condolences and acknowledge the courage and care shown by NSW Police, paramedics, emergency services, and the brave members of the public who stepped in to help others in the most confronting circumstances. Their actions reflected the very best of our community spirit in the face of tragedy.
“In Parliament, the last sitting weeks of the year were focused on holding our government to account on regional services, infrastructure, and health.
“Back home in the Goulburn electorate, I have had the privilege of recognising many volunteers, leaders, and organisations who quietly make an extraordinary difference every day across the community. This Christmas, I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve and to stand alongside so many people who care deeply about the future of our region.
“May the spirit of love and togetherness guide our holiday season, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Federal Member for Whitlam, Carol Berry echoed those sentiments.
“I would like to wish everyone a safe and happy Christmas and New Year with their family, friends and loved ones,” she said.
“It has been a very sad and difficult end to 2025, and I would like to send my condolences and love to the Jewish community. As 2025 draws to a close, take care of one another, and drive safely.”
State Member for Wollondilly Judy Hannan said we as a community needed to pause, reflect and reconnect.
“As we come to the close of the year, Christmas offers a moment to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what truly matters,” Ms. Hannan said.
“It is a time to celebrate community, kindness, and the shared values that bring us together.
“We are mindful that this season can be difficult for many, particularly for those who have experienced loss, sadness, or significant challenges during the year. To all who have had a tough time or whose resilience has been tested, we hold you in our thoughts and extend our care and compassion.
“Thank you to everyone who has given their time, energy, and kindness throughout the year— you have made a genuine difference. May this season bring moments of peace and comfort, and may care, understanding, and hope prevail. We wish you a safe and very Merry Christmas, and a year ahead filled with health, healing, and new beginnings.”
Federal Member for Eden Monaro, Kristy McBain, which Goulburn now belongs to since a redistribution from Hume in 2024, said this:
“Before anything else, I want to acknowledge the heartbreaking attack at Bondi earlier this month, where innocent people lost their lives during a Jewish community celebration,”she said.
“I know our community is thinking of all the families who are grieving, those recovering from injuries, and the first responders and community members who acted with incredible bravery. At a time of year when togetherness means so much, this tragedy has touched many Australians, and our hearts are with everyone affected.
“As Christmas approaches, I want to wish everyone a very merry festive season. I hope you have the chance to rest and relax with family and friends and enjoy the break. For those in our community that continue to work through the Christmas and New Year period, thank you.
“As we say goodbye to 2025 and 2026 begins, I am proud of some of the achievements the government has delivered. From the biggest‑ever investment in bulk billing; to cutting 20% off student debt. These things have a real impact on people, and my focus will continue to be on delivering for our local community.
“We’ve also reduced the maximum co‑payment for PBS medications to just $25 — the lowest price since 2004.
“From 1 January, we are launching 1800 MEDICARE — a new advice and out‑of‑hours Medicare telehealth service for every Australian. Day or night, you can speak to a qualified professional when you need it.
“And our free digital Medicare Mental Health Check‑In is now live, helping you access support without needing a GP referral and without worrying about gap fees.
“These changes are just the beginning. We’ve made real progress, and we know there’s more work to do in 2026.
“This term my ministerial role expanded. I am now the Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, and the Minister for Emergency Management. My new role means I am responsible for ensuring we have stronger and more resilient communities before, during and after disasters and emergencies.
“We’ve already seen natural disasters strike across the country this higher‑risk weather season, from Tropical Cyclone Fina in Northern Territory and Western Australia to hailstorms in Queensland and bushfires in NSW and Tasmania.
“This summer I urge everyone to stay safe and be prepared.
“Natural disasters can strike at any time. Whether it’s a flood, bushfire or heatwave, disasters can be unpredictable and disruptive. How we plan, prepare and support one another makes a big difference. It helps build resilience and improves recovery outcomes.
“You can find helpful resources on getting prepared and who to contact in an emergency on my website at https://www.kristymcbain.com.au/resources/higher-risk-weather-season-resources.
Ms. McBain’s office closed on Wednesday, 24 December 2025, and will reopen again on Monday, 5 January 2026.
“If you need assistance during this time, please email me at Kristy.McBain.MP@aph.gov.au — emails will be monitored over the break,” she said.
“Merry Christmas, have a happy New Year, and I look forward to catching up with you in 2026 somewhere in the #MightyEdenMonaro!”
Nationals MP Michael McCormack, the Member for Riverina, in which the Yass Valley is now a part of since a redistribution, said this on his Facebook page:
“From my family to yours, happy Christmas and all the very best for the New Year.
“Remember to keep safe on our roads and enjoy the festive season, whilst thinking of those less fortunate and those keeping all of us safe.”
Federal Member for Macarthur, Dr Mike Freelander added his Christmas message for his constituents.
“Merry Christmas, Macarthur!” he said.
“Thank you for your support during what has been a wonderful year in many ways, and difficult in others. From my family to yours, I hope this Christmas is joyful and spent with loved ones.
“If you are traveling during this period, please be safe on our roads and a special thank you to our emergency service personnel for their hard work over this holiday season. Be safe this Christmas season and take care of one another.”
Dr. Freelander also thanked those who work over public holidays and urged members of the public to be kind.
“To everyone working over the public holidays, thank you for the tremendous work you do,” he said.
“A reminder to all, it doesn't cost extra to be nice to staff.”
Federal Member for Hume, Angus Taylor, whose electorate now mostly contains the Wollondilly region and a section of the Southern Highlands and Camden areas, added a small message as well as a video.
“Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas,” Mr. Taylor said.
“I hope it’s filled with laughter, rest and time with those who matter most.”
Read More: Camden, Goulburn, Southern Highlands, Southern Tablelands, Wollondilly, Yass