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Has Australia made the “nice” list this year? Santa responds.

By Richard O'Neill - posted Thursday, 22 December 2011

Saying "no" is easier than saying "yes." It is far easier to convince people to do nothing than something. And making other kids scared is the easiest thing a boy can do.

But where has "no" ever got you, Australia?

"No" to federation?

"No" to Anzac?

"No" to post-war migration?

"No" to the snowy scheme?

"No" to the Vietnamese? The East Timorese?

It's not you, Australia.

You're a lovely boy. You've got a great home, stable parents, and a good education. You can be extraordinarily generous when you put your mind to it; and it has always, always worked to your benefit when you have.

Do not lose sight of this experience, this legacy, and this heritage.

Do not shy away from it.

Do not listen to guff about a "nice" Australia being a "weak" Australia.

Continued over the page...