Sydney
It was ten years ago today that fire tore into our nation's capital, killing four people, destroying almost 500 homes and changing forever the lives of so many Canberrans.
Ten years ago Australians watched-on as Canberrans pulled together and fought back. We saw tremendous scenes of selflessness, neighbours helping neighbours, first-time volunteers fighting fires alongside veteran emergency service personnel.
Many of the physical scars from ten years ago are now long faded. But, the emotional scars still linger.
Sadly, this story has been told before of other Australian communities, and it will be a story that is told again. But, with each fire we learn important lessons. Our preparedness, response and recovery becomes smarter, more efficient and more effective every year.
Today, I pay tribute to the people of Canberra and all those who supported the people of our nation's capital recover from this devastating day.
As we remember the tragic events in Canberra a decade ago, our thoughts are also with the many communities in Victoria and New South Wales that are today facing high temperatures and major bushfires.
Everyone should ensure they take the appropriate precautions to stay safe and monitor information from local emergency services as they work to protect lives and property.