Bayside City Council will mark Australia Day with our annual flag raising and citizenship ceremony.
Australia Day is a day to recognise the contribution of all Australians from many different backgrounds and cultures.
It is also an opportunity to acknowledge and reflect on why 26 January is not a day of celebration for many people, and especially First Nations peoples.
Bayside Mayor, Cr Fiona Stitfold emphasises the importance of approaching Australia Day with empathy and understanding.
“Australia Day is a day to embody our values: respect, compassion and empathy, tolerance, justice and peace,” said Cr Stitfold.
“Our democratic principles importantly allow us to hold and express many opinions, as long as they are considered, and not intended to cause harm.
“Our people are as diverse as our country, which interconnects us and provides cohesion. The beauty and uniqueness of Australia is often reflected in our respectful coexistence with each other and our care for country.
“This is what a day to reflect Australia represents,” said Cr Stitfold.
On 26 January, we will conduct our flag raising ceremony and welcome new Australian citizens, who will pledge to continue making Australia a peaceful and cohesive place to live, work and play.
This year’s Australia Day citizenship ceremony will be held at Brighton Town Hall and will welcome 80 new citizens, from 22 countries, who now call Australia home.
Decisions regarding the date of Australia Day are the responsibility of the Federal Government.
