During a recent lunch at Parliament House, the Assistant Minister for the Public Service delivered a heartfelt address celebrating the 125th anniversary of Australia’s Federation. This significant milestone, referred to as the ‘quasquicentenary,’ provides an opportunity for reflection on the unity and strength of the nation, which was forged through cooperation and shared vision.
Honoring History Through Art
The Assistant Minister recounted the story of a notable painting titled the ‘Big Picture,’ created by renowned Australian artist Tom Roberts. This artwork depicts the first-ever sitting of the Australian Parliament, which took place on 9 May 1901, at the Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne. Attended by approximately 12,000 guests, this moment marked a defining point in Australia’s history.
Roberts dedicated two years to this monumental painting, meticulously sketching over 269 individuals to ensure accurate representation. He documented details such as height, weight, and even hat sizes to achieve realism. However, the process was not without challenges. Some subjects, like John Forrest, Western Australia’s first Premier, were reluctant to cooperate, while others offered bribes for better positioning on the canvas. Despite these hurdles, Roberts’ commitment to the project resulted in a masterpiece that reflects both the historical significance of the event and the artist’s dedication to capturing a distinctly Australian aesthetic.
Values of Unity and Generosity
The Assistant Minister emphasized that the true essence of Australia lies not in its physical structures or artworks, but in its people. He highlighted the hard work, creativity, and generosity of Australians, stating that these qualities are essential in building a brighter future. The finalists for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards exemplify these traits, inspiring hope and light in challenging times.
Quoting Neale Daniher, the 2025 Australian of the Year, the Assistant Minister remarked, “I choose hope because I believe in the decency and generosity of Australians.” This sentiment reflects a deep-seated belief that for over 65,000 years, the spirit of hope and community has thrived on Australian soil.
The upcoming ceremony will announce the national award winners, an event that consistently brings excitement and pride. The Assistant Minister concluded by acknowledging the contributions of all attendees, affirming that, regardless of the awards, Australia has already achieved greatness through the dedication and efforts of its people.
The celebration at Parliament House served as a poignant reminder of the progress made over the past 125 years and the importance of unity in shaping Australia’s future.
