Australian PM in tears over heroes of nation's disasters

IN EXTRAORDINARY scenes in Australia's parliament yesterday, Prime Minister Julia Gillard broke down in tears while paying tribute to flood disaster zone heroes.

Ms Gillard led condolence motions for the 35 people in Queensland, one in New South Wales and one in Victoria who were killed in the floods. Seven people remain missing.

In a rare show of emotion, the prime minister's voice shook as she spoke about Australians who lost their lives, and those who gave so much to help others, during the recent floods and cyclones.

Ms Gillard, who has been criticised for seeming "wooden" during tours of disaster areas this summer, choked as she paid special tribute to Jordan Rice, 13 - who died after pushing his ten-year-old brother Blake into rescuers' arms. "The legend of Jordan's amazing courage will go on," she said. "We should also remember this summer as a sign of courage," Ms Gillard said.

Opposition leader Tony Abbott put politics aside to pay tribute to Ms Gillard and her efforts to be with those affected by disasters in several states.

"Whatever political disagreements we may have, she has shown a decent heart," Mr Abbott said.