Dutton Vows to Bring Back Jan. 26 Citizenship Ceremonies in First 100 Days as Elected

There has been controversy surrounding Australia Day, with some advocating for it to be renamed as ‘Invasion Day.’

If Opposition Leader Peter Dutton assumes power, he has promised to mandate that all local councils conduct citizenship ceremonies on Jan. 26—Australia Day—within 100 days.

“I want us to remain united and to uphold our beliefs. We must stand proud of our country,” stated Dutton.

Australia Day commemorates the arrival of the First Fleet from the UK, signifying the official start of European colonization and development of Australia.

Currently, local councils have the option to hold citizenship ceremonies around Jan. 26, with a three-day window on either side of the date.

In recent years, some councils have chosen to avoid celebrating on the 26th due to cultural sensitivities towards Indigenous Australians.

Conversely, certain councils have decided to overturn previous resolutions and have committed to hosting citizenship events on Australia Day.

Related Stories

PM Also Supports Australia Day

Labor Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has defended Australia Day, confirming his attendance at the Canberra ceremony and encouraging Dutton to do the same.

“I’ll be here in Canberra at the national event. I encourage Peter Dutton to come to the national event. I always did when I was opposition leader,” Albanese said.

The prime minister reiterated the significance of Australia Day as an inclusive celebration.

“It’s fantastic that that occurs, and I hope that there’s bipartisan support,” he added.

Dutton Criticizes High Commissioner Smith

Dutton’s remarks extended beyond local council ceremonies; he also criticized recent decisions made by Australia’s High Commissioner to the UK, Stephen Smith.

Initially, Smith had chosen not to attend the Australia Day Gala in London, a notable part of UK celebrations for the day.

The Gala is traditionally attended by prominent figures, including the high commissioner, equivalent to an ambassador.

Dutton criticized Smith’s decision, labeling it as “beyond comprehension” and reflecting a broader disdain for Australia Day.

“What other developed country neglects its national day?” he questioned, suggesting that if Smith felt ashamed of Australia Day, he should return to Australia.

Reports indicate that the high commissioner ultimately reversed his decision to skip the Gala and rearranged his travel plans to attend the event.

A High Commission spokesperson confirmed that Smith would convey a “personal message” from Prime Minister Albanese at the event.