Australia Australia Day Substitute 2025

When is it Celebrated?

January 26, unless it's a Saturday/Sunday—then the public holiday shifts to the following Monday.

Australia Day Substitute Historical Data (2023 - 2027)

Know about the Complete List of Public Holidays in Australia this year including National and Regional holidays.

Purpose

Officially, it's a day of national pride with citizenship ceremonies and awards. For many Indigenous Australians, it's "Invasion Day"—a time of mourning and protest.

How Is It Celebrated?

• BBQs & Beach Trips: Families fire up grills and hit the coast (if it's not too hot!).
• Citizenship Ceremonies: Thousands become new Aussies in emotional ceremonies.
• Fireworks & Concerts: Major cities host dazzling displays and live music.
• Protests & Survival Day Events: Indigenous communities lead rallies and cultural performances.
• Triple J's Hottest 100: A youth radio tradition—voting on the year's best songs.

History

January 26, 1788, marks Captain Arthur Phillip's landing in Sydney Cove. It became a national holiday in 1994.

Modern-Day Focus

Now a polarizing day—some celebrate with flags, while others call for changing the date.

Fun Fact

Only 34% of Australians know what January 26 actually represents (per 2023 surveys).