ⓒ The Australian
More than 200 pubs across Australia have announced they will not be celebrating Australia Day this year. This decision, impacting venues owned by the Australian Venue Co, the nation’s second-largest pub group, comes in response to concerns about the hurt and sadness the day causes some patrons. Indigenous Australians often refer to January 26th as ‘Invasion Day,’ marking the arrival of the British First Fleet in 1788, a date signifying the beginning of colonization and its lasting impact.
The Australian Venue Co stated that they chose not to celebrate a day that causes pain for a segment of their community and staff. The decision affects a wide range of establishments, from iconic pubs like the Regatta Hotel in Brisbane and Sydney’s Cargo to local favorites in Melbourne and St Kilda. This move follows similar controversies involving major retailers, Woolworths and Aldi, who chose not to sell Australia Day merchandise in 2024, prompting a backlash from Opposition Leader Peter Dutton.
The government’s stance remains firm in supporting the public holiday on January 26th, but the decision by the Australian Venue Co highlights the ongoing debate and sensitivity surrounding the date’s significance for many Australians.
