Australia Day
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Overview
Australia Day is the official national day of Australia. Celebrated annually on January 26, it commemorates the arrival of the First Fleet of British ships at Port Jackson, New South Wales, in 1788, and the raising of the Flag of Great Britain at Sydney Cove by Governor Arthur Phillip. It is a day for Australians to celebrate their country, its achievements, and its diverse society, though it is also a day of reflection and protest for Indigenous Australians and their supporters, who refer to it as 'Invasion Day' or 'Day of Mourning'.
Observed each year on January 26, Australia Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.
Origin and story
Before 1935, Australia Day was known as 'Anniversary Day' in some states.
The date January 26 marks the day Governor Arthur Phillip formally proclaimed British sovereignty over the eastern seaboard of Australia.
Quick facts
- DateJanuary 26
- TypeCultural / community observance
- Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams
Also on this date
Ways to observe
- Learn about Australia's history.
- Explore Indigenous perspectives.
- Understand why the day holds different meanings for different people.
- Enjoy Australian music, food, or films.
- Learn about Australian geography and wildlife.
- Appreciate cultural contributions from across Australia.
Fun facts
- Australia Day is both widely celebrated and widely debated, making it a day of national conversation as well as commemoration.
Sources and attribution
Australia Day History & Meaning (National Museum of Australia)
Australia Day Explained (Encyclopaedia Britannica)
External links may lead to third-party websites.
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FAQ
- When is Australia Day?
- It is observed on January 26 each year.
- What is Australia Day?
- Australia Day is the official national day of Australia. Celebrated annually on January 26, it commemorates the arrival of the First Fleet of British ships at Port Jackson, New South Wales, in 1788, and the raising of the Flag of Great Britain at Sydney Cove by Governor Arthur Phillip. It is a day for Australians to celebrate their country, its achievements, and its diverse society, though it is also a day of reflection and protest for Indigenous Australians and their supporters, who refer to it as 'Invasion Day' or 'Day of Mourning'.
- How do people observe Australia Day?
- Learn about Australia’s history and reflect on its different meanings.
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