Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has urged Australians to come together in unity, shared responsibility and pride during his annual Australia Day message, delivered amid ongoing calls for social cohesion.
The Prime Minister’s address follows earlier appeals for unity in the wake of recent acts of violence and heightened community tensions, as Australians marked the national holiday across the country.
Describing Australia Day as a time to reflect on both the nation’s history and its future, Mr Albanese said the occasion was an opportunity for Australians to celebrate what unites them.
“Today is a day for Australians to come together to celebrate everything that unites us as a nation and makes us the best country on Earth,” he said.
Reflecting on Australia’s past, the Prime Minister acknowledged the significance of the continent’s First Peoples and the enduring strength of their culture.
“We look back on the fullness and richness of our history, recognising what an extraordinary privilege it is to share this continent with the oldest continuous culture in all its wisdom and its resilience,” he said.
Mr Albanese also looked to the future, emphasising collective responsibility and fairness as core elements of Australia’s national identity.
“We look forward to the future we want for the next generation of Australians, because at the very heart of our national identity is our shared determination and our collective responsibility to make our country stronger and fairer for those who will follow us,” he said.
He stressed that Australia Day belongs to all Australians, regardless of background or heritage, and highlighted the contributions of generations who have helped build the nation.
“Whether your ancestors have known and cared for this land for 65,000 years, or whether you join our Australian family today, pledging your loyalty to our people and our democracy at citizenship ceremonies right around our nation, we all count ourselves lucky to call Australia home,” Mr Albanese said.
“This country we love and everything we have achieved together is not the result of luck. It has been built, defended and strengthened over generations by countless acts of service, courage and kindness – by people working together and caring for each other. That’s the Australian way.”
Concluding his message, the Prime Minister encouraged Australians to approach the year ahead with optimism and solidarity.
“Let us look to the year ahead, united by pride in our country and faith in each other,” he said.
“I wish you all a happy Australia Day.”
Opposition Leader Sussan Ley also marked the national day, delivering her message from Corowa, on the New South Wales–Victoria border, where the foundations for drafting the Australian Constitution were laid in 1893.
“What unites us as Australians is far greater than anything that could ever divide us,” Ms Ley said.
“Our nation was built by people who believed in working together, shaping our future and taking responsibility for it. That spirit still defines Australia.”
She said Australia Day was an opportunity to celebrate shared freedoms, opportunities and national identity.
“Australia Day is the day we come together to celebrate who we are, what we share and the freedoms and opportunities that bind us as Australians,” she said.
