Almost 300,000 Australians served on the Western Front, where more than 45,000 lost their lives and more than one-third of those have no known grave.

During the First World War the Anzac legend was born, which helped define the character of our young nation.

Sadly, this was not the last time that Australians have been called upon to fight, and die, for the values and freedoms that also define our national character.

More than 102,000 Australians have died serving our country in all wars and conflicts.

On Remembrance Day, we honour each and every one of those Australians.

At 11am we fall silent, not to glorify war but to honour the bravery and sacrifice of the men and women who serve in defence of our country.

Lest we forget.

Dan Tehan

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs

Change is inevitable, but it’s how you navigate it that matters. In this ever changing world we urge everyone who cares about our society – whether you live in Sydney or Swan Hill – to remember we all deserve respect and dignity.

Our country’s success is built on this very idea of a ‘fair go’ for all, a notion underpinned by the very basic principle of humanity. Humanity is universal in nature and urges that all people – no matter their gender, race or religion – to be treated with respect, and given the chance to live life in dignity.

In this world we have choices to make: a fair go for all, or just for some; unity or separation. We all have the chance to nurture and promote the kindness, compassion and goodness that are essential for human dignity.

At Red Cross, we work for unity, humanity and the inherent dignity of every person. We encourage all Australians and our community, political and business leaders to do the same.

Judy Slatyer

Australia Red Cross CEO

I am writing to update you on the Coalition Government’s initiative to help local employers create work opportunities for young people on the Mid North Coast.

The Commonwealth is investing $840 million in the Youth Employment Package, an innovative new programme that will help up to 120,000 young Australians get job-ready and equipped to enter the workforce. 

A key element to the Youth Employment Package is the Youth Jobs PaTH (Prepare-Trial-Hire) which will increase young people’s employability and provide them with the real work experience they need to obtain gainful employment.

This presents an exciting opportunity to our local youth and importantly, local businesses such as yours.

I am inviting local business to consider participating in the Youth Jobs PaTH programme which will include;

•  Initial government funded training to get young Australians job-ready.

•  Internships lasting 4 – 12 weeks, giving young job-seekers valuable work experience in a workplace. Participating interns will also receive up to $200 per fortnight in addition to their fortnightly welfare payment.

•  Support for participating local businesses with upfront payments of $1,000 for taking on an intern. If businesses subsequently offer the intern ongoing employment, they will also be eligible for a wage subsidy of up to $10,000. 

Together we will be giving young people the best possible chance to get a job and in doing so build a stronger, more productive and cohesive community.

Luke Hartsuyker, Member for Cowper