Greek Independence Day Message from Anthony Albanese MP, Leader of the Australian Labor Party

On Greek Independence Day, I send my very best wishes to all Greeks and Australians with Greek heritage.

It is 201 years since the revolt in the Peloponnese that saw a people rise to their feet and so emphatically end centuries of Ottoman occupation. Their cry of Elefthería í thánatos/ Ελευθερία ή θάνατος – Freedom or Death – has lost none of its spirit. If anything, current events are underscoring the enduring power of that rallying cry and the hunger for freedom that drove it.

Our connection with Greece is profound. We are home to such a large part of the Greek diaspora; Melbourne alone has the biggest Greek-speaking population outside of Greece.

It’s something we take great pride in as Australians. From our big cities to our country towns, Greek Australians have done so much to shape the face of our modern nation. I am proud to say my own electorate of Grayndler, especially my home suburb of Marrickville, has long been a Greek stronghold.

On behalf of the Australian Labor Party, I say to our Greek community – and to Greeks everywhere: Zito i Ellas! Ζήτω η Ελλάδα! Long Live Greece!