Cumberland City Councillor Steve Christou has expressed his disapproval of “continuous Welcome to Country ceremonies” in a recent social media video, sparking a new debate ahead of Australia Day on January 26.
“I was born in Australia the son of Greek Cypriot refugees. Whilst attending school I have only ever known one flag and celebrated Australia Day proudly on January 26th,” Councillor Christou said in a TikTok video.
“I’m sick and tired of the endless Welcome to Country ceremonies in my place of birth. One Flag, One Nation united.”
The video received a number of mixed reactions on the social media platform, with Councillor Christou eventually turning off the comments section.
This statement comes as Australia continues to grapple with debates around Australia Day and whether it should be celebrated on January 26 or another date out of respect for First Nations peoples.
