PM pays tribute to disaster-hit Aussies

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has used parliament to pay tribute to Australians facing a tough start to the year because of natural disasters.

While fires threatened communities in Victoria and Western Australia, Northern Territorians, Queenslanders and residents of the NSW Hunter faced floods.

"For many, what should have been a time to relax and celebrate with family and friends was instead marred by personal tragedy," he told the lower house on Tuesday.