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2009/03: Should we change the date of Australia Day?





Introduction to the media issue

Video clip at right: ABC TV's 7.30 Report interview with Mick Dodson, in which he mentions his call for a "conversation" on the celebration of Australia Day.
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What they said...
'To many indigenous Australians, in fact, most indigenous Australians, it really reflects the day on which our world came crashing down'
Professor Mick Dodson, 2009 Australian of the Year, calling for a national discussion about the date on which we celebrate Australia Day

'Civilisation arrived in Australian in 1788'
Former New South Wales premier, Mr Bob Carr, defending January 26 as the date on which Australia Day should be celebrated

The issue at a glance
On January 26, 2009, Professor Mick Dodson, an Aboriginal spokesperson who has recently been announced as Australian of the Year, called on the Australian Government to begin a national conversation on whether January 26 should remain the date of Australia's national day.
Professor Dodson explained that for many indigenous Australians the date commemorated a day that marked the invasion of their country and the end of their way of life.  It was for them a day of mourning rather than of celebration.  Professor Dodson also stated his belief that Australian society was now sufficiently mature to make such a debate possible.
On January 27, 2009, the Prime Minister, Mr Kevin Rudd, stated, 'To our indigenous leaders, and those who call for a change to our national day, let me say a simple, respectful but straightforward "no".'
This response was welcomed by some, including the leader of the  Opposition, Mr Malcolm Turnbull.  It was, however, criticised by a number of others, including former Australian Rules footballer and coach, Ron Barassi.
A debate on the issue proceeded in the print media and through call-back  radio.