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Independence Day of Australia

Last Updated : 22 Dec, 2023
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The Independence Day of Australia is celebrated annually on the 26th of January every year and is referred to as Australia Day. It marks the landing of the First Fleet in Sydney Cove in the year 1788 and Arthur Phillip’s hoisting of the Union Flag at Port Jackson in New South Wales after days of exploration there. Celebrations currently include gatherings of friends and peers, as well as family, talks on the nation’s past, presentations of formal awards to members of the community, as well as rituals to welcome new citizens into the country. This article will explore the history of Independence day of Australia, its significance, and how it is celebrated.

Significance of Independence Day of Australia

The meaning and importance of the Independence Day of Australia have changed throughout time and have been debated. The British asserted control over Australia’s eastern coast on January 26, 1788. The first formal commemoration of New South Wales’ establishment occurred in 1818; however, accounts of celebrations on January 26 date back to 1808. British colonies of Australia established a federation on January 1, 1901, ushering in modern Australia. It was wished for as a national day of joy as well as festivity.

History of the Independence Day of Australia

Independence Day of Australia falls on the 26th of January. It was to commemorate the beginning of ships of the British in 1788, which led to the very first European colony. Eleven ships conveyed 750 convicts convicted and condemned in the UK for relatively minor offenses to British-established penal colonies in North America and the Pacific.

In 1818, British dominance over Australia’s east coast was first recorded. This occasion has been called “Foundation Day”, and “Anniversary Day”, and is also called the “Australian Natives’ Association” Day (ANA). All Australian states and territories embraced “Australia Day” in 1935, and January 26 became a holiday in 1994.

Australia Day, the country’s most significant annual civic festival, is a day of national togetherness packed with family traditions, community, and national honors and welcomes new citizens. Not every Australian is happy on Australia Day. The British invaded Australia, which affected some families who mourn on this day which is why it is also referred to as an international day of mourning.

How to Celebrate Independence Day in Australia?

On the Independence Day of Australia, the Australian of the Year Awards, which began in the 1960s to recognize Australians around the nation, are presented. Recipients are selected to exhibit knowledge in their area, contribute substantially to their local community and country, and be great role models for Australians.

Keep an Eye Out For the Ferrython

Sydney will see an astonishing display on January 26 at approximately 11 a.m. The annual ferry race from Barangaroo Wharf to Shark Island, which finishes at Sydney Harbour Bridge, is in Sydney. This is a nationally recognized event with stunning vistas. You should secure tickets on one of the boats if you want a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Summary

Australia is usually regarded as a desirable location and a popular tourist destination. There’s much to see and do in the world’s coldest, driest, and flattest inhabited continent. Australia Day also honors Aboriginal ancestors who died and suffered during colonization. The Australian government also recognized the original land owners when the Independence Day of Australia was celebrated to encourage Australians of all backgrounds to appreciate Australia as a multicultural nation.


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