Part 4/10:
Opposition to the council’s decision highlights the broader divide in how Australians perceive their national day. Many migrants and Indigenous Australians alike view January 26 as a day of cultural significance—whether as the day the First Fleet arrived or as a symbol of nationhood and identity. For some, celebrating Australia Day on January 26 is an opportunity for new citizens to forge a connection with their adopted homeland through citizenship ceremonies held on the day.