| Senator Joe Ludwig Cabinet Secretary Special Minister of State |
The Hon Bill Shorten MP Parliamentary Secretary for Victorian Bushfire Reconstruction |
02/2010
5 February 2010
The Australian National Flag will fly at half mast above Parliament House to recognise the first anniversary of the Victorian bushfires on Sunday.
Cabinet Secretary, Senator Joe Ludwig, today said the first anniversary of the bushfire tragedy should be marked with respect and dignity.
“On 7 February 2010, Australians will stop to remember the people left devastated by the unimaginable bushfire disaster in Victoria last year,” Senator Ludwig said.
“To honour the victims of the disaster, the Australian National Flag will fly at half-mast and the nation will pause for a moment’s silence.”
“The flag will be raised again after the observance of one minute’s silence at 12 noon.”
“Commonwealth agencies and departments will also lower their flags, and I encourage homes around Australia to join the Government in paying their respects to those whose lives were left shattered.”
Parliamentary Secretary for Victorian Bushfire Reconstruction, Bill Shorten MP, said the Rudd Government has provided more than $455 million to date to help the recovery of affected communities.
“We are working closely with Victorian and local Governments, communities, businesses and non-government organisations to assist in the reconstruction effort.”
“One year on we will pause, and remember the bravery, the heroism, the terrible loss, and the courage of those who have been and continue to feel the effects of these fires.”
"Visiting the bushfire hit towns immediately after February 7th I saw many Australian flags flying proudly outside damaged or destroyed homes, put there by their owners as a symbol of hope for the future. It is entirely appropriate that the loss of life suffered in the fires will be commemorated by the flag flying at half mast."
| Media Contact: | Website: |
|---|---|
Senator Ludwig's Office - Sarah Cosson - 0423 823 843 or (02) 6277 7600 |
www.cabinetsecretary.gov.au www.smos.gov.au |
| Mr Shorten's Office - Ben Ruse - 0407 030808 |