At Tuesday’s Future Melbourne Committee meeting, Councillors endorsed an options paper for approaches to 26 January, which also recommended Council continue its support for events delivered by other organisations in Melbourne on Australia Day.
Council will continue to hold citizenship ceremonies on 26 January, incorporating First Nations elements such as an Acknowledgement of Country, while supporting activities that acknowledge First Nations perspectives of 26 January, such as Share the Spirit.
A community information campaign will also be delivered to enhance the community’s understanding of Aboriginal sentiments relating to 26 January.
The decision follows an independent survey of more than 1,600 City of Melbourne residents and business owners, which found nearly 60 per cent of respondents want to see Australia Day celebrated on a different date.
There’s also unanimous support to change the date from the five Traditional Owner organisations that make up the Eastern Kulin nation.
The City of Melbourne is working to advance its reconciliation journey with First Nations people, however any decision to change the date must be made at a Federal Government level.
Quotes attributable to Lord Mayor Sally Capp
“It’s clear there is majority support in our municipality to change the date on which we celebrate our nation – that’s why we will lobby the Federal Government to change the date of Australia Day.”
“We’ve sought feedback from a wide range of voices in our community to understand the most unifying way to celebrate what it means to be Australian.”
“It’s ultimately the Federal Government’s decision to change the date. Until then, we will continue to support a range of activities on 26 January, including citizenship ceremonies.”
Quotes attributable to Aboriginal Melbourne portfolio lead Councillor Dr Olivia Ball
“The majority of Melburnians want to change the date on which Australia Day is celebrated, and we’re proud to take a strong stance in advancing this important discussion.”
“We need to find a new way forward that acknowledges our history and respects First Nations voices.”
Key findings from RedBridge survey:
59.8% collectively support changing the date of Australia Day, compared with 31.6% who do not
59.9% indicated it was likely Australia Day would be moved from 26 January in the next 10 years
55.1% believe that local councils should hold citizenship ceremonies on Australia Day
31.3% indicated activities that acknowledge Indigenous Australians should be held on Australia Day