As Australia continues to grapple with the meaning of January 26, two historians have suggested that moving the national holiday to a different date might be the only way to resolve the ongoing tensions.
With multiple local councils already planning to hold citizenship ceremonies outside of January 26 in 2025, the debate around the day’s significance is showing no signs of slowing down.
A Divided Nation
January 26 marks the day the British flag was planted in Port Jackson, modern-day Sydney, in 1788, but for many Indigenous Australians, it’s a painful reminder of the country’s dark history.
CQUniversity historian Dr. Benjamin Jones believes that the fundamental difference in perspectives on the day means that there can never be a resolution between those who see it as a celebration of Australia’s foundation and those who view it as a day of mourning.
A Growing Awareness
ANU historian Professor Angela Woollacott notes that the controversy surrounding Australia Day has grown alongside a increasing awareness of the country’s disputed history. “I think it has become controversial in the last couple of decades because of growing awareness around the suffering of Indigenous people and the symbolism of calling it Invasion Day,” she says.
Pushback Against Change
Despite the growing awareness of the day’s complexities, there is still significant pushback against moves to reposition key ceremonies outside of January 26. The City of Unley and Geelong Council have both voted to restore their citizenship ceremonies and Australia Day Awards to January 26, citing community support for the move.
The Path Forward
Dr. Jones suggests that a new date might be the only way to bring unity to the country. He proposes March 3, marking the passage of the Australia Acts in 1986, as a potential alternative. Professor Woollacott agrees, saying that the debate around January 26 will “go on forever” and that a new date is needed to “clear the deck.”
What Do You Think?
As the debate around Australia Day continues, we want to hear from you. Do you think a date change could bring unity to the country, or do you believe that January 26 should remain as Australia’s national holiday? Share your thoughts in the comments below.