Rudd enters Labor Party Campaign Headquarters to rapturous applause.
He’s on the stage with his wife, and a big grin on his face. His family have joined him.
At the podium.
“OK guys. A short time ago, Mr Howard called me to offer his congratulations.
“I thanked him for that and the dignity with which he extended those congratulations.
We should celebrate and honour the way we conduct this great Australian democracy of ours.
I want to acknowledge now for the people of Australia and recognise Mr Howards extensive service to Australia.
There are big differences between us but we share a common pride in this nation.
Today, Australia has looked to the future.
Today the Australian people have decided that we as a nation will move forward.
To write a new page in our nations history.
To make this great country of ours, Australia, even greater.
Today ,many people across Australia have voted Labor for the very first time. Today ,many people across Australia have voted Labor for the first time in a very long time.
ANd, I say tonight to the nation that I will never take their sacred trust for granted.
I understand that this is a great privilege and I will do everything to honour the trust given to me.
I say to each and every person that I will be a Prime Minister for all Australians.
A Prime Minister for indigenous Australians.
Australians who have been born here and Australians who have come here from afar, and who have contributed to the great diversity that is our nation.
More in this vein.
For our men and women in uniform serving in difficult and dangerous environments around the world.
And I make this solemn pledge to the nation, I will always govern in the national interest.