"On Australia Day 1949, the Nationality and Citizenship Act of 1948 became law. This was the first time in our Nation’s history that the term ‘Australian Citizen’ had been used, including within the Australian Constitution. Prior to this, everyone living in Australia were simply recognised as British subjects. But on Australia day in 1949 we were all finally recognised and joined together to form our community of Australian Citizens - officially becoming the Australian People.
Each year we commemorate Anzac Day on April 25th, not because it was one of the greatest military disasters and loss of Australian lives in the war, but because of the actions and attitudes of those who fought through horror that day and demonstrated all that it meant to represent Australia and all our people. This is what I choose to celebrate on Australia Day; The coming together of all Australians and how we choose to celebrate that each and every year is the legacy that we leave and the opportunity that we provide for generations moving forward.
Australia started with conquest and conflict. Our First Nations People suffered through events that we would all take up arms to fight against in the context of today. We must acknowledge our past and make sure that we remember and learn from our history. We must also move forward and strengthen our national identity with the bonds that unite us, while facing those that cause us to divide. This is our responsibility as the Australian people, please help us progress these conversations with more understanding, compassion and respect for all those involved.
On Australia Day, I choose to celebrate the coming together of all our Australian community. How will you choose to celebrate Australia Day, and set the legacy for our generations moving forward?" - Heston Russell
Let's celebrate that which unites our Australian community today. We cannot change the past but we are the ones who make the future.
Best regards,
David James Connolly