PM’s Heartfelt Plea: Albanese Urges Aussies to Spread Christmas Cheer to Families in Need Amid Soaring Cost of Living Crisis
- Anthony Albanese launches 38th annual Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal to support Australians struggling at Christmas
- Research reveals 64% of Aussie families feeling financial pressure, with many turning to charities for help
- Kmart and Salvation Army join forces to bring joy to those in need, with over 14 million gifts collected since the appeal’s inception
As the festive season approaches, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has issued a heartfelt appeal to Australians to make Christmas a little brighter for families doing it tough. Launching the 38th annual Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal, Albanese praised the “Australian spirit” of generosity, compassion, and community that the beloved tradition embodies.
Joined by Kmart Group managing director Aleksandra Spaseska, Opposition Leader Sussan Ley, and Salvation Army’s Colonel Rodney Walters, Albanese placed the first gifts under the Wishing Tree at Parliament House in Canberra. The appeal, which has collected over 14 million gifts and millions of dollars in donations since its inception, supports Australians in need at Christmas by inviting shoppers to place gifts under Wishing Trees in Kmart stores.
However, this year’s appeal comes at a time when Australian families are struggling with the soaring cost of living. Research from The Salvation Army revealed that 64% of respondents are feeling more financial pressure, with many turning to charities for help. Albanese acknowledged the challenges faced by many Aussies, saying: “The Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal reflects the best of the Australian spirit – generosity, compassion and community.”
Aleksandra Spaseska praised the enduring commitment of both Kmart’s team members and the public, saying: “For almost four decades, Kmart and The Salvation Army have worked to brighten everyday life for Australians. We thank the Prime Minister, the Opposition Leader, and all members of Parliament and Senate for standing with us and supporting the 2025 Appeal.”
As the appeal gets underway, Aussies are urged to dig deep and make a difference in the lives of those in need. With the support of Kmart and The Salvation Army, Albanese is hopeful that Australians will come together to make Christmas a little brighter for families doing it tough.