Julia Gillard (Lalor, Australian Labor Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

With the indulgence of the House, I take this opportunity to make an announcement about the forthcoming visit to Australia by President Obama. As members will be aware, President Obama will visit Australia on 16 and 17 November. Last month I wrote to President Obama to invite him to address the parliament during his visit. I am pleased to advise the House that President Obama has accepted this invitation. His address will take place on 17 November.

The President's visit has historic resonance, as this year is the 60th anniversary of the Australia-United States alliance and the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. During his visit we will be firmly focused on the future: on our future alliance partnership, on the opportunities for our societies in the Asian century, on economic growth and on jobs. I look forward to making more announcements about the President's program in Australia in due course. I am sure all members and senators will warmly welcome the President to this place.

Tony Abbott (Warringah, Liberal Party, Leader of the Opposition) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise to echo the Prime Minister's statement of welcome to the President of the United States. America is Australia's greatest friend and strongest ally and the President of the United States will always be our most welcome and our most honoured guest. I think it is particularly fitting that President Obama should be visiting Australia this year which marks the 60th anniversary of the signing of the ANZUS alliance by Sir Robert Menzies.