Australian PM, other officials send Chinese New Year's greetings

The dense Lunar New Year vibe in Australia was further lifted as Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and other officials gave new year greetings to Chinese at home and abroad.

"The Lunar New Year is the highlight of the Chinese calendar and a special occasion for families to gather and celebrate their heritage," the prime minister said.

He added that "while this festival is a moment of particular significance to those of Chinese background, it is equally a time for Australians of all cultural backgrounds to reflect on and celebrate the benefits of our diversity."

Turnbull said that Australia is "a nation built on the riches of many cultures," where "every community group and every cultural tradition is an indelible part of who we are."

"The Year of the Rooster, a sign traditionally associated with confidence, motivation, and assertiveness, bodes well for future success," the official said, adding that "I wish all Australians a wonderful Chinese New Year and great fortune and happiness in the months ahead."

Julie Bishop, Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, also sent a media release Saturday expressing her "best wishes to the Chinese community on Chinese New Year and to other East Asian Communities who celebrate the Lunar New Year tradition."

"May the Year of the Rooster bring you and your families good health, happiness, and enduring prosperity. May it also bring Australia, the region and the world greater peace and harmony. Xin Nian Kuai Le (the Chinese pinyin for Happy New Year)!"

"The Australian Chinese community has made the great contribution to Australia and Chinese culture has become one of the most important parts of Australia' s multicultural society," said Matt Thistlewaite, Shadow Assistant Minister for Treasury.

Thistlewaite made the remarks while celebrating the Chinese New Year with the Australian Chinese community as federal member of Kingsford Smith, where the "electorate enjoys and appreciates the gift and contribution from the hardworking, honest and talented Chinese community."

"I am honored to celebrate the Chinese New Year, the Year of Rooster with all the Australian Chinese community, and I wish all of you and your family a happy, healthy and prosperous Chinese New Year," the official said.

"You should be proud of your achievements for the past year and should feel confident for the year to come and I thank you all for making our community a better place. May the Year of the Rooster a happy, healthy, fortunate and prosperous year for you all. Happy Year of the Rooster," said Thistlewaite. Endi