Australia Day

In the News and Trending for Australia Day

Australia Day Facts & Quotes

• In 2015 Australia day coincided with 150th anniversary of Colac's Botanic Gardens.
• The First Fleet, consisting of 11 ships and led by Captain Arthur Philip from Great Britain, arrived at Port Jackson on January 26, 1788.
• Australia was originally designed as a penal colony - a place used to exile convicts and criminals. The first was named the Colony of New South Wales.
• The Australian Flag is flown to commemorate this holiday. The flag includes: the Union Jack, representing historical ties to Great Britain; a large white seven-tipped star representing the 7 provinces making up the Commonwealth of Australia; and five white stars in the Southern Cross constellation pattern, a reminder of their Southern Hemisphere location.
• The entire population of Australia (22.3 Million) is less than the population of Texas (26 Million).
• There's an expression in Australia that's called 'Go Bush,' which means to get out of the city and relax. I try and 'go bush' to places where there's no cell reception. But, I don't get to do that often, so for the most part, it's just a state of mind. - Cate Blanchett, actress

Australia Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Watch fireworks displays. Some of the grander displays are at Sydney harbor, Rooty Hill and the shores of Lake Burley Griffin.
• Watch or attend the Oz Day 10km race in Sydney, Australia.
• Visit Hyde Park in Sidney where many Australia day events take place.
• Attend flag raising and citizenship ceremonies in Canberra and Perth.

Australia Day References and Related Sites