Australia’s Opposition Leader, Peter Dutton, has lashed out at the country’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Stephen Smith, for choosing not to host Australia Day celebrations in London on January 26.
This move has been seen as a snub to the national holiday, with Smith instead opting to attend a gala ball on January 25.
What’s Behind the Decision?
According to reports, Smith will keep Australia House on the Strand closed on January 26, citing the fact that it falls on a Sunday, a typically quiet day in London.
However, Dutton has called out Smith for being “ashamed” of Australia Day, saying that if he can’t celebrate the national holiday, he should “get on the next plane home.”
A History of Controversy
This is not the first time Smith has been embroiled in controversy surrounding Australia Day celebrations.
In 2024, the gala dinner was moved from January 26 due to “sensitivities” surrounding the date, which marks the arrival of the First Fleet in Sydney Cove in 1788.
At the time, Smith told organisers it was not appropriate to hold the gala around January 26.
Government Response
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles had previously stated that there would be an Australia Day function in London, at Australia House, on January 26, “no ifs, no buts.”
However, it appears that Smith has gone against this directive, sparking outrage from Dutton and other critics.
Alternative Celebrations
Despite the controversy, the Britain-Australia Society is co-hosting a sold-out gala ball at the luxury Peninsula Hotel in Belgravia on January 25.
The event will celebrate a “forward thinking, diverse” Australia, rather than commemorating the arrival of the First Fleet. Smith will attend the gala and deliver a personal message from the Prime Minister.
What Do You Think?
Should the High Commissioner be celebrating Australia Day on January 26, or is it okay to hold alternative events? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!