Italians show benefits of immigration: PM

Julia Gillard says the integration of Italian migrants in Australia shows the strength and the benefits of immigration to the nation.
The prime minister acknowledged the contribution Italian migrants have made to Australia at a dinner marking the 150th anniversary of Italy's unification.
Ms Gillard said thousands of Italians have made the "momentous decision" to sacrifice their home to journey across the globe and realise their hopes in Australia.
"But if Australia was a land of opportunity, it only came at a price," Ms Gillard said at the Italian National Day Ball in Sydney on Friday.
"Years of backbreaking labour in places like the Snowy or the cane fields, working two or three jobs, sometimes facing misunderstanding and discrimination.
"But in spite of these difficulties, you held fast and saw Australia as it could be."
She said Australia changed for the better as the nation absorbed these migrants.
"That is why we must always regard immigration as a source of strength," Ms Gillard said.
"Because it renewed and enriched our nation at its core, precisely at the time when the world was opening up and our old insular habits could no longer be sustained.
Ms Gillard said the unification of the city-states into the nation of Italy in 1861 led the way for the prosperous, innovative European country of today.
"Friends, Italy has given many great gifts to the world: her culture, her food, her sense of style - but the greatest gift of Italy has been her people," she said.
"Around 60 million people outside Italy claim Italian heritage.
"And for this gift, Australia will always give thanks."