FEDERAL Member for Bonner Kara Cook says the Albanese Government has no plans to change the date of Australia Day, accusing the Opposition of reigniting divisive culture wars for political gain.
Her comments come as Federal Member for Bowman Henry Pike renewed his push to enshrine January 26 as Australia Day in law, calling on the Albanese Government to allow debate on his Australia Day Bill 2025.
As the Prime Minister has said many times, Ms Cook said the Government has no plans to change the date of Australia Day.
“Mr Pike and his colleagues know this. Yet every January, like clockwork, they engage in lazy and divisive culture wars in a desperate search for a headline,” Ms Cook said.
“He is deliberately stoking anger and grievance for political attention.
“On January 26, we recognise our shared history as a nation. For many, but particularly First Nations Australians, this day is one of mourning, reflection and healing.
“For my family, and as a proud mum of three First Nations children, it is a time to reflect truthfully on Australia’s history, including its darker chapters and to think about how we move forward together as a nation.”
Ms Cook said National unity comes from being honest about our history, respecting lived experience and choosing to bring people together rather than setting them against one another.
“That is how we build a stronger, fairer Australia for all our kids, including mine,” she said.
Mr Pike has reintroduced the Bill to Parliament, proposing legislative protections for Australia Day like those applied to the Australian flag.
Under the proposal, the national day could not be changed without the approval of Australians through a national plebiscite.
The Bill was not debated during the 47th Parliament after the Government declined to allow it onto the floor, and Mr Pike says there are concerns the same approach will be taken in the 48th Parliament.
In response, he has launched a public petition aimed at applying pressure on the Government to secure legislative protection for the date.
More than 67,000 Australians have already signed the petition in support of the Bill.
“Australia Day is more than just a date on the calendar. It represents who we are as a nation,” Mr Pike said.
“January 26 is Australia Day and should not be changed without approval by the Australian people. Everyday Aussies are proud to celebrate our national day.”
Mr Pike warned that efforts to undermine Australia Day were increasing, arguing the issue extended beyond formal policy debates.
“For years, corporations, media, activists, and woke inner-city lefties have tried to make Australians feel guilty for celebrating our national day. First it was the ‘Voice’, now they quietly cancel Australia Day celebrations, remove merchandise, and allow public servants to take other days off,” he said.
He also criticised the Albanese Government over a recent $1.5 million grant for a study into changing Australia Day.
“They know they cannot win a straight fight to abolish Australia Day. So, they chip away at it from the edges. One decision. One directive. One ‘sensitive’ cancellation at a time,” Mr Pike said.
“Australians are tired of their national day being used as a political plaything.”
Mr Pike said legislating the date would provide certainty and long-term protection.
“Australia Day is 26 January – let’s protect it through legislation just like we protect our flag,” he said.
Australians can sign the petition supporting the Australia Day Bill at www.henrypike.com.au
