Prime Minister Julia Gillard has encouraged Australians to pass the hat around for flood relief this Australia Day, as they reflect on the nature of mateship.
Ms Gillard and partner Tim Mathieson on Tuesday hosted the finalists in the Australian of the Year awards for morning tea at The Lodge in Canberra.
National Australia Day Council chairman and cricket great Adam Gilchrist stood alongside the prime minister greeting guests including solo sailor Jessica Watson, former senior award winner and celebrity chef Maggie Beer and last year's winner, Professor Pat McGorry.
Ms Gillard said the day was about celebrating "the mateship we have seen on display as Australia has battled the floods in Queensland and beyond".
"And I know that Australians around the country are going to use this Australia Day as a moment to stop and reflect, to think about their fellow Australians, but also a moment to continue doing all of that wonderful practical volunteering work," she said.
"Right around the country tomorrow there will be fundraisers from humble barbecues, where people will pass the hat around, to organised events - corporate Australia playing its role - and every Australian pulling together at what has been such an amazing time of need.
"On Australia Day we are going to be reflecting on what has happened and we are going to be renewing our determination to rebuild for the future."
Mr Gilchrist said the finalists all had three things in common.
"They share three common bonds - there is passion for what they pursue and their fields of endeavour, their desire to make a difference and ... they're all Australian, which is something to be extremely proud of," he said.
The prime minister later signed autographs, including a cap for Tasmania's Local Hero award nominee, Senior Constable Ian Edwards, who runs the Kommunity Kids program.
