Anthony Albanese, Peter Dutton lead condolence motion to Lance Corporal Jack Fitzgibbon

The death of Lance Corporal Jack Fitzgibbon has reminded Australia there are “no easy days for those who defend our nation”, Anthony Albanese has said.

In a condolence motion to the son of former defence minister Joel Fitzgibbon on Thursday, the Prime Minister said the whole of Australia “thanks Jack and honours Jack”.

“He lived a full life that was cut far too short,” Mr Albanese said.

Corporal Fitzgibbon suffered critical injuries during special forces training at RAAF Base Richmond on March 6 before later dying.

An emotional Mr Fitzgibbon and his family sat in the House of Representatives chamber before question time as Mr Albanese said directly to them: “We hold all of you in the embrace of our hearts.”

“Jack was humble, and I know that your pride in all that he was and all that he achieved was as immense as your love for him,” Mr Albanese said.

“This is tough. But to all who loved him, and to all who served with him, to all who have joined us here … may your hearts always glow with his memory. May Jack rest in peace.”

The NSW Hunter town of Cessnock “stood still” on Monday when the late special forces member was farewelled.

During the service, he was described as a loyal friend with an “infectious sense of humour”.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, who attended the service along with Mr Albanese and a host of other MPs, on Thursday said the funeral service had shown just how loved the 33-year-old was.

“There was an emotional outpouring, particularly from Jack’s mates, and I acknowledge those in uniform who are with us today, and those who will be in mourning the loss for a long time to come,” Mr Dutton said on Thursday.

“May Jack Fitzgibbon rest in peace.”

Defence Minister Richard Marles remembered Corporal Fitzgibbon as an “experienced parachutist” but said his military accolades told just one part of the story.

“(He was) a young man with a captivating, cheeky smile who at the same time was completely committed to his family and friends, to his job, to his nation,” Mr Marles said.

Speaking directly to Mr Fitzgibbon, Mr Marles said the pain being felt in the chamber was “also a reflection of the deep warmth and affection which is felt for you on both sides of this chamber”.

Opposition defence spokesman, and special forces veteran Andrew Hastie, also paid tribute to Mr Fitzgibbon.

“We know that you shouldered a tough time during your time as defence minister … Joel, it’s our turn to support and comfort you during this time as your family experiences the unique grief that comes with losing a loved one in the service of our nation,” he said.

“I know that the second commando regiment is proud of him. The special air service regiment is proud of him. We are all proud of him. And we will remember him.”

After the official condolence motion wrapped up, members from all sides of parliament lined up to embrace Mr Fitzgibbon, shake his hand and console the family.

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