Anthony Albanese's message for Australians who criticise Welcome To Country
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has spoken about the importance of Welcome to Country ceremonies after one was performed at the official opening of Parliament.
The 48th parliament officially opened on Tuesday, marking Mr Albanese's second term as prime minister after his landslide election win, with Labor holding 94 of the 150 seats in the House of Representatives.
The official procession filed into the Great Hall of Parliament House before a Welcome to Country and traditional dances were performed.
Indigenous Elder Violet Sheridan welcomed the assembled politicians to Ngunnawal land.
'To walk on Ngunnawal country is to accept responsibilities. It is not just about being here. It is about caring for this land,' Ms Sheridan said.
'As part of this welcome I offer you spiritual protection and safe passage. May you all walk gently, listen and carry the spirit of this country with you.
'May your journey on Ngunnawal country be of understanding, respect and shared purpose. Guided by the values of care, connection and community.'
Following the ceremony, Albanese reinforced the importance of Welcome to Country ceremonies, claiming it was a 'powerful way' to begin the new parliament.
'Like a lot of the more positive things about our nation, we shouldn't take it for granted,' Albanese said.
'This ceremony didn't take place until 2007 and was controversial in 2007. It is not controversial today. Nor should it be.
'It is a respectful way of us beginning our deliberations here in Canberra, which of course means 'meeting place'.
More to come...
