ARTICLE

April 20, 2009

“During this time of commemoration, on behalf of the Australian Government, I express my deepest sympathies to the Armenian community in Australia for the terrible loss of life and suffering which took place in the early part of the last century.

The 94th anniversary provides a valuable opportunity for Australians to remember those who died and express solidarity and compassion to the Armenian community in Australia, who have contributed so much to the Australian nation.”
- The Hon. Kevin Rudd MP
Prime Minister of Australia (ALP)


“We appreciate the contribution of Australian-Armenians to Australian life and sympathise with you on this day of commemoration.”
- Senator Concetta Fierravanti-Wells
Senator for NSW, representing Leader of the Federal Opposition, the Hon. Malcolm Turnbull MP (LIB)


“I believe it is time we recognised the Armenian Genocide. I will leave parliament at the next elections and before that date there are one or two things I wish to achieve, and this (recognition) is one of them.”
- The Hon. Dr. Brendan Nelson MP
Federal Member for Bradfield (LIB)


“I have met many Armenians and none of them were born in Australia. They are from Iraq, Syria and Lebanon because the genocide took them to these locations.”
- The Hon. Philip Ruddock MP
Federal Member for Berowra (LIB)


“You can rely on Barry O’Farrell and my NSW Liberal Opposition colleagues for ongoing and unwavering support towards the recognition of the Armenian Genocide.”
- Mr. Jonathan O’Dea MP
NSW Member for Davidson, representing Leader of the NSW Opposition, Mr. Barry O’Farrell MP (LIB)


“The healing of this grave injury to decency cannot be completed until the process of truth and reconciliation removes the stain of decades of official denial. The Greens recognise the mass murder, forced marches and deportations of Armenians as acts of genocide."
- Dr. John Kaye MLC
Member of the NSW Legislative Council (GREENS)