Australia Day
On 26 January each year, we celebrate Australia Day. Australia Day is a public holiday in every state and territory in Australia. It is the anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet from Great Britain in 1788.
On Australia Day, communities across Australia reflect on our history, and the people who have contributed to
our shared achievements. It is the biggest annual public holiday in Australia.
Australia Day is about acknowledging and celebrating the contribution that every Australian makes to our contemporary and dynamic nation: from our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples—who have been here for approximately 65,000 years—to those who have lived here for generations, and those who have come from all corners of the globe to call our country home. Australia Day is marked by events across Australia, including special citizenship ceremonies.
During Australia Day celebrations, the Prime Minister announces the Australian of the Year Awards in Canberra.
Anzac Day
Anzac Day is commemorated on 25 April each year. Anzac Day is named after the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, which landed at Gallipoli in Türkiye during World War I on 25 April 1915.
Anzac Day is a solemn day when we remember the sacrifice of all Australians who served and died in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations. We also honour the courage and commitment of all servicemen and women and reflect on the many different meanings of war.
Information about other important national days and celebrations can be found in Part 5, Australia today.
