Australia Day in Australia
Australia Day is observed on 26 January, a date associated with the arrival of the First Fleet at Sydney in 1788. People mark the day in different ways: for some it is a national celebration, while its history is also a focus of protest and mourning.[1][4][5]
A national public holiday
The Fair Work Act 2009 lists 26 January as a public holiday. Employees have a right to be absent from work on a public holiday, although an employer may make a reasonable request to work; eligible employees absent on the day are generally paid their base rate for ordinary hours.[1][3]
When 26 January falls on a Saturday or Sunday, state and territory arrangements may substitute a public holiday, commonly on the following Monday. The applicable public holiday can differ by state, territory or region, so check the official calendar for the place where you work or plan to visit.[2][3]
Why the date carries different meanings
The date is tied to the arrival of the First Fleet in Sydney Cove in 1788, but it has acquired different meanings over time. The National Australia Day Council describes it as a day to reflect on the country’s history and future, and recognizes that it means different things to different people.[4]
That disagreement has a documented history. On 26 January 1938, Aboriginal activists gathered in Sydney for a Day of Mourning and protest. They called for better treatment, equal rights and changes to government policy. The event is part of the historical context for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives on the date.[5]
How people observe it
Councils and community groups hold events around Australia. The National Australia Day Council describes these as opportunities to reflect, respect and celebrate with communities; the day can also involve time with family and friends.[4]
Citizenship ceremonies are among the events held on Australia Day. The Australian Government’s citizenship ceremonies guidance identifies 26 January as a day of significance and says Australia Day is marked by events across the country, including special ceremonies.[6]
Planning for the public holiday
Public holiday calendars and entitlements can vary across states and territories, and some arrangements apply only in particular regions. If you are travelling or working away from your usual location, check the calendar for the relevant state or territory.[3]
Do not assume that every office, bank, shop or transport service will follow the same schedule. Check opening hours and service timetables with the provider, and confirm the local public holiday date if 26 January falls on a weekend.[2][3]
Australia Day: common questions
When is Australia Day?
Is Australia Day a day off work?
Are shops, banks and public transport open?
Opening hours and service timetables can vary. Check with the specific shop, bank or transport operator before travelling, and consult the state or territory calendar for local arrangements.[3]
Why do some people protest or mourn on Australia Day?
The date is associated with the First Fleet’s arrival in 1788. In 1938, Aboriginal activists held a Day of Mourning and protest on 26 January to demand equal rights and changes in policy; the National Australia Day Council also acknowledges that the date means different things to different people.[4][5]
Sources and references
Sources used for Australia Day in Australia:
- Fair Work Act 2009- Australian Government, Federal Register of Legislation
- Substitute public holidays- Fair Work Ombudsman
- Public holidays- Fair Work Ombudsman
- About- National Australia Day Council
- The 1938 Day of Mourning- Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies
- Australian Citizenship Ceremonies Code- Australian Government, Department of Home Affairs