It’s a call to action. January 26th

Changing the date of Australia Day is not just symbolic—it’s a call to action. It’s a chance for our nation to truly hear, act, and stand in solidarity with the First Peoples of this land.

For over 65,000 years, Aboriginal Australians have carried the legacy of the world’s oldest continuing culture. Despite this extraordinary endurance, the road to reconciliation remains fraught with challenges. This is a moment for truth-telling, a chance to honour the resilience of Aboriginal communities and confront the missed opportunities to support justice and equity.

As the 26th of January approaches, we are once again confronted with divisive debates—arguments about the Aboriginal Flag and vile, racist comments spreading across our country. These moments expose how far we still have to go as a nation. Instead of silencing or dismissing these voices, we must confront them with truth and compassion.

Aboriginal people are a humble people, proud of their heritage and culture that has endured against all odds. Their generosity in sharing their knowledge, art, and stories is remarkable. They continue to teach us about the land, the waterways, and the sacred connection to Country. Despite the ongoing pain and adversity, their willingness to share this wisdom and build understanding is an extraordinary act of courage and grace.

The debates and racist rhetoric should serve as a wake-up call. They remind us why it’s so crucial to amplify the voices of Aboriginal people, to protect their dignity, and to honour their lived experiences. These moments test our national character—and they demand that we rise above hate and division to pursue unity, truth, and reconciliation.

The conversations about changing the date and the significance of the Aboriginal Flag have only strengthened our resolve. At Communicare, we are unwavering in our commitment to inclusiveness, equality, and justice. We stand for a future where Aboriginal people thrive—not merely survive—and enjoy the same opportunities as every other Australian, in a country that was never ceded.

Communicare’s approach empowers employees to choose whether to work on 26 January and celebrate on a different day, respecting the diverse perspectives and emotions tied to this date. This is one step toward fostering a more inclusive future.

It’s vital to acknowledge that 26 January has not always been “Australia Day.” For many Aboriginal Australians, this date marks the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788—a moment that triggered immense trauma. Colonisation tore families apart, suppressed languages and culture, and dispossessed entire communities, leaving cycles of disadvantage that persist today.

For Aboriginal people, 26 January is a day of mourning, not celebration. Recognising this pain is not unpatriotic—it’s a commitment to unity. Questioning this date doesn’t weaken our love for this country; it strengthens it by aspiring to a future of respect, truth, and shared pride for all who call this land home.

We urge every Australian to reflect. Listen to the voices of First Nations people. Understand the history. Embrace the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable. Together, we can create a future that honours the past while building a more inclusive, unified nation.

At Communicare, we acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands and waterways on which we live and work. We pay deep respect to Elders past, present, and future, and to our Aboriginal colleagues, friends, and clients.

We will hear. We will listen. We will act. And we will stand firm in our commitment to justice, truth, and reconciliation.

Alira Kelly – Aboriginal Cultural Lead

Merinda March – CEO
Communicare and White Ribbon Australia