Focus on unity as Australians mark national day

Australians should focus on the things that unite us, the governor general says in the face of another Australia Day marked with celebration, protests and new beginnings.

Delivering his final Australia Day address Governor-General David Hurley reflected on the words of Australian writer David Malouf.

“Australia is still revealing itself to us and we are all part of its evolving story,” he said.

“That journey and how we deal with other issues where there are strongly held, differing views in our community, will help determine the Australia that reveals itself.”

The governor-general implored all Australians to reflect on the things that unite us no matter how they spend their Australia Day.

Australia Day is an opportunity for the nation to unite, Governor-General David Hurley says. (Jono Searle/AAP PHOTOS)

“Consider what it is that makes us an island nation – rather than a nation of different islands comprised of communities adrift of each other,” he said.

“I believe Australia is greater than the sum of its individual parts. That our diversity is a strength.

“Bound by an underlying respect for each other, for our right to disagree and for our institutions.”

Millions of people across the nation will celebrate, commemorate or protest on January 26, the day of Captain Arthur Phillip landed at Sydney Cove.

Anthony Albanese said the national day was for all Australians to reflect, respect and celebrate the values, beliefs and freedoms we share.

“The values of compassion and respect, courage and kindness are at the heart of our national identity and they remain the foundation of our national success,” the prime minister said.

Opposition immigration and citizenship spokesman Dan Tehan said it was a day to unite as equals and celebrated the diversity of cultures living peacefully.

“Just like every family we have our disagreements, but we have held together through wars, pandemics, and depressions because we respect our differences, and embrace our connections,” he said.

But January 26 marks a day of mourning for Indigenous Australians.

Invasion Day rallies will be held in capital cities to protest against Australia Day. (Jono Searle/AAP PHOTOS)

Invasion Day or Survival Day rallies will be held in all capital cities, providing a visual reminder of opposition to the public holiday.

Dawn reflections in Sydney and Melbourne will mark the start to festivities on Australia Day with Aboriginal artwork illuminated onto the Sydney Opera House sails.

Australia will also meet its newest inhabitants with thousands of migrants becoming honorary citizens.

Throughout the day the defence force will treat people to spectacular skyshows including flypasts across the country while Sydney residents can expect to glimpse Air Force Roulettes and parachutists plunge into the harbour.

Despite the split in opinion for the day, the outgoing governor can’t help but be optimistic for the future knowing the character of Australian people.

“Whatever our challenges and divides, we’re a good people, a kind people, united and bound together.”