Australia Day

The majority voted against a motion to consult with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples about changing the date of Australia Day.

Motion text

That the Senate—

(a) acknowledges that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are the First Peoples of these lands and waters;

(b) recognises that 26 January is considered a day of mourning for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples as it represents the beginning of colonisation;

(c) acknowledges the growing calls from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and organisations, local governments and the community to change the date;

(d) urges all Australians to respectfully engage in conversations about changing the date of Australia Day; and

(e) calls on the Federal Government to engage and consult with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples about changing the date of Australia Day, so that all Australians can participate in celebrating this national day.