Countdown to Australia Day? (2026)

“The raising of the British flag signified the beginning of dispossession, violence, and the devastating loss of land, culture, and life.”
The consequences of colonisation are felt deeply and intergenerationally to this day. From this perspective, celebrating on this particular date is seen as deeply insensitive and painful, as it ignores the trauma that began from that moment onward.

The Evolving National Conversation

In recent years, the conversation around Australia Day has moved from the periphery to the mainstream. What was once a quiet discussion is now a very public and passionate national debate.

This is reflected in the growing support for #ChangeTheDate movements. The argument is not against having a national day of celebration, but about choosing a date that is inclusive and one that all Australians can celebrate without pain. Proponents suggest alternative dates, such as Federation Day (January 1st) or May 9th, when the first Federal Parliament was opened.

Conversely, others argue that the date is an immutable part of history and should be retained. They see it as a day to honour the achievements of modern Australia, from its British origins to its diverse, multicultural present. For them, changing the date feels like erasing history rather than learning from it.

Finding Common Ground: What Unites Us?

Perhaps the most Australian thing about this debate is the way it forces us to engage with our complex past and our evolving identity. It encourages a national introspection that is vital for any mature nation.

Many communities are finding ways to acknowledge the full story of the day. Survival Day dawn services and events are held across the country, celebrating the resilience, endurance, and rich culture of the world’s oldest living continuous cultures. These events often feature Indigenous music, art, and storytelling, offering a powerful counter-narrative.
Indigenous Culture Celebration Image
Citizenship ceremonies, where people from all over the world become new Australians, remind us that the Australian story is one of ongoing migration and inclusion. Perhaps the true spirit of the day lies in these moments of welcome and reflection.

Conclusion: A Nation’s Journey

Australia Day is a mirror held up to the nation. It reflects our triumphs and our failures, our unity and our division, our ancient history and our recent past.

There are no easy answers. Whether the date changes or not, the most important outcome of this debate is that we are talking, listening, and— crucially—hearing the stories of the First Australians. Recognising this pain is not an attack on modern Australia, but an essential step toward a more honest and inclusive future.
“Ultimately, the values we choose to celebrate—mateship, a fair go, resilience, and diversity—are far more important than the date on the calendar.”
The journey toward a national day that truly encompasses all Australians is a journey of respect, and that is a journey worth taking.

Key Facts About Australia Day

Historical Timeline

1788: First Fleet arrives at Sydney Cove

1935: All states adopt the name “Australia Day”

1994: Consistent national public holiday established

Alternative Names

• Invasion Day

• Survival Day

• Day of Mourning

Suggested Alternative Dates

• January 1st (Federation Day)

• May 9th (Opening of first Federal Parliament)

• May 27th (1967 Referendum anniversary)

Recent Surveys

According to recent polls:

• 54% of Australians see January 26 as our national day

• 29% are indifferent to the date

• 17% would prefer to change the date

• 72% of Indigenous Australians support changing the date

Further Reading

• “The Australian Dream” by Stan Grant

• “Finding the Heart of the Nation” by Thomas Mayor

• “Dark Emu” by Bruce Pascoe

• “Talking to My Country” by Stan Grant