Celebrating Australia Day on January 26 is a tradition that has evolved to honour the Australia's history, achievements, and diverse culture.
It commemorates the arrival of the First Fleet at Sydney Cove in 1788, which marked the arrival of British settlers in Australia, and is a time to celebrate the modern, multicultural society Australia has become, recognising the contributions of all its people, including Indigenous Australians and migrants from around the world.
Indeed, as previous PM Tony Abbott suggested, we could describe Australia as a country with an indigenous heritage, a British foundation, and an immigrant character.
Almost forgotten, there is another very significant event which occurred on this day. On 26 January 1949, the Nationality and Citizenship Act 1948 became law and Australian nationality came into existence.
It was the first time that the term "Australian citizen" had been used in any Australian legislation, including the Australian Constitution. (Up to that point all residents, both aboriginal and settlers/migrants, were British subjects and we given British passports when travelling overseas.)
This law meant that all people living in Australia, including Indigenous people, were now Australian Citizens. And since that day, people who have arrived and want to be an Australian citizen become so at Citizenship ceremonies, most often held on this date as well.
This is why 26th January can really be called Australia Day, and has been since 1949.
Whereas most people focus on the First Fleet arrival, which a few others call an invasion, I like to focus on the recognition of our national identity.
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