Settlement Guide: What is Australia Day?

Australia’s national day has its roots in the country’s colonial past. It marks the day when the First Fleet of 11 British ships sailed into Port Jackson with Governor Arthur Phillip raising the British flag in Sydney Cove on 26 January, 1788. Many Indigenous Australians regard it as ‘Invasion’ or ‘Survival’ Day. How has the meaning of Australia Day changed over time?

Lamington Topped Cupcakes, from an Australia Day BBQ. Source: Getty Images

‘Australia Day’ was first celebrated at a small gathering in Sydney in the early 19th century. Darwin-based historian Dr Elizabeth Kwan is the author of the essay “Celebrating Australia: a history of Australia Day”. She explains the original purpose of January 26.

 

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