About our national day
Australia Day is a day to reflect, respect and celebrate the Australian spirit and the best of this country – our mateship, our sense of community and our resilience. We find optimism and hope as we look to the future.
Reflect. Respect. Celebrate.
We reflect on our nation’s past, which began more than 65,000 years ago, and the impact of European settlement on the First Nations Australians. Our national day is a time, above all, for inclusion and respect. It enables us to pause, listen and gain a greater understanding of First Nations Peoples, culture and heritage as we work towards reconciliation.
We aim to respect the contributions of all Australians, and we celebrate our achievements by coming together and connecting with family, friends and the community.
Australia Day is also an opportunity to celebrate our cultural diversity and rich migrant heritage which is very much part of our unique Australian identity.
The NSW Government, together with the Australia Day Council of NSW, is committed to engaging with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, elders and peoples about Australia Day activities. Together, we present an inclusive Australia Day program to the people of NSW.
Image caption: Performers from the Koomurri Aboriginal Dance Troupe during the Smoking Ceremony, which cleanses the way for new beginnings at the WugulOra Morning Ceremony.
History of Australia Day
First Nations Australians
Our nation’s story began more than 65,000 years ago. First Nations Australians are the foundation of our nation’s story and continue to maintain the world's oldest living culture.
eastAustralia Day Council of NSW
Our vision is to inspire national spirit and enrich the life of the nation.
eastAustralia Day Ambassadors
More than 100 inspirational Australians speak about what it truly means to be Australian at events across NSW each year.
eastAustralia Day Awards
Our nation celebrates the diverse and remarkable contributions of extraordinary Australians. Honouring our most exceptional Australians since 1960.
eastNational anthem
We encourage you to enjoy our national anthem, 'Advance Australia Fair' in both English and Eora. Learn how to sing the national anthem in this beautiful Aboriginal language from the Sydney district.
eastMy Australia
“My Australia” is a bite-sized docuseries which takes a diverse and inclusive look into modern Australia’s DNA.
eastCitizenship
To participate in a citizenship ceremony on our national day is considered by many as an incredible honour and privilege.
eastCreative Director
Australian musician, composer and TV personality John Foreman OAM returns to the highly coveted role of Creative Director with the Australia Day Council of NSW.
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