Prime Minister Kevin Rudd delivered his Christmas message after returning to Canberra on today, saying the holidays are a time for families - but spare a thought for those who have a “vacant chair at the Christmas table.”
Following his whistlestop tour to Iraq and Afghanistan to visit Australian troops, Mr Rudd said, Christmas was also a time for reflection and celebration.
But in a poignant moment, the PM added that many people would be without their loved ones this Christmas – the PM lost his Father to a motor vehicle accident when he was in his teens.
"Christmas can also be a time when people experience a great sense of loss and loneliness," he said.
"A spare chair, a vacant chair at the Christmas table, reminding those present of either a loved one who has passed away or a loved one who can't be with us at this time.
"I'd say, therefore, to all Australians, that at this time of year it's important to reach out to our friends, to our neighbours, and those we don't know at all, to make sure that no one is alone this Christmas."
He praised churches and charities for catering for those in need this Christmas and throughout the year.
Mr Rudd also said he had passed on the nation's thoughts to the more than 3,500 Australian defence personnel serving overseas, as well as their families.
The PM also made special mention of farmers struggling through prolonged drought.
Earlier, Mr Rudd enjoyed a spot of last-minute Christmas shopping with his daughter Jessica in Canberra, despite having only arrived back in the country a few hours earlier.
He wished all Australians a safe and happy Christmas on behalf of his family.
"On behalf of Therese and myself, Jessica (and her husband) Albert, Nicholas and Marcus, I'd like to extend to all of you a very happy Christmas, a very peaceful Christmas, and a very happy new year and a very prosperous new year as well."
