Australia Day

Australia Day is celebrated on January 26 every year, marking the anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet of British ships at Port Jackson in 1788. If January 26 falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the public holiday is observed on the following Monday.

Australia Day is the official national day of Australia, marking the arrival of the First Fleet and the raising of the British flag at Sydney Cove on January 26, 1788. While celebrated with pride by many, the date is also called 'Invasion Day' or 'Survival Day' by Indigenous Australians, making it a subject of ongoing national debate.

Australia Day is exclusively the national holiday of Australia, celebrated in all six states and two territories. Australian communities abroad, including in the UK and US, also hold unofficial celebrations and events.

Yes, Australia Day is a public holiday in all states and territories of Australia. Government offices, banks, schools, and many businesses close. It is one of Australia's most recognized national holidays.

Australia Day traditions include citizenship ceremonies welcoming new Australians, backyard barbecues and picnics, fireworks in major cities, concerts and community events, the Australian of the Year awards ceremony in Canberra, and beach gatherings. In recent years, many communities have added events that acknowledge Indigenous Australians and their history.