What is Australia Day?
Australia Day is the national day of Australia, held on 26 January each year. It marks the anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet at Sydney Cove in 1788 and the raising of the British flag there.
On 26 January 1788, Captain Arthur Phillip raised the British flag at Sydney Cove, establishing the colony of New South Wales. The date was celebrated by colonists in various ways during the 1800s.
All states and territories have celebrated Australia Day on 26 January as a public holiday since 1994. The day includes citizenship ceremonies, community events, barbecues and fireworks.
Australian of the Year
The Australian of the Year awards are announced on the eve of Australia Day. They recognize the achievements of Australians in four categories: Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year, Young Australian of the Year and Australia's Local Hero.
For many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, 26 January marks the beginning of colonization and dispossession. Some call it Invasion Day or Survival Day and hold protests and gatherings.
In 1938, Aboriginal leaders held a Day of Mourning on 26 January. Debate continues today about whether the date of the national day should change, with many councils and organizations reviewing how they mark the day.
Did You Know?
Triple J's Hottest 100 countdown was traditionally held on Australia Day but moved to a different weekend in 2018.