FEDERAL Member for Bowman, Henry Pike, has reiterated his commitment to safeguarding Australia Day on January 26, pointing to the overwhelming public support for maintaining the current date.
Speaking about the ongoing debate surrounding the national day, Mr Pike emphasised that public opinion remains firmly in favour of celebrating Australia Day on January 26, despite the ongoing controversy.
“Every year, we hear the same debate, but public opinion remains steadfast in favour of keeping Australia Day on 26 January,” Mr Pike said.
He highlighted the consistency of support among Australians who view the day as a time to reflect on the nation’s history and celebrate its achievements.
The proposed legislation, which Mr Pike first presented to Parliament in 2023, aims to enshrine January 26 as the nation’s national day in federal law, ensuring that any future changes to the date or its abolition would require a national plebiscite.
He likened this process to the protections currently in place for changes to the national flag or anthem, arguing that Australians should have ownership over their national day.
While January 26 remains a source of contention, particularly among Indigenous communities who view the date as a symbol of colonisation, Mr Pike dismissed the idea of altering the date without broad public support.
“Australia Day should belong to the people of Australia, not any government,” he said.
The bill seeks to provide long-term protection for Australia Day, allowing the date to remain free from political upheaval.
Mr Pike has called on the Prime Minister to prioritise the bill in the next parliamentary sitting, stressing the importance of uniting the country around a day that reflects Australia’s achievements and aspirations.
“Australia Day is a day for all Australians to come together,” Mr Pike said.
“It’s time to ensure that we can celebrate without ongoing political battles over the date.”
