Media Release by The Hon Jenny Macklin MP

Australia Day

23 January 2009

The Australian Government does not support a policy of changing the date of Australia Day.

We have no plans to change either the date or the name of Australia Day.

Australia Day is an inclusive day, celebrating the identity and achievements of all Australians.

We acknowledge our first Australians whose cultures we celebrate as the oldest continuing cultures in human history.

It is a time when we reflect on and celebrate the strengths of all our people.

We celebrate the diversity of the origin of our citizens and pay tribute to the rich, cohesive society the Australian people have worked hard to create.

Acknowledgement of Country

The Australian Government acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, water, culture and community. We pay our respects to the Elders both past and present.