“Reflect, Respect, Celebrate" is Burnie’s inclusive approach to Australia Day, Citizenship & Community Recognition awards
Why we Celebrate, why we Evolve
Australia Day has been celebrated in different ways over time. In 1994, the date was officially fixed as 26 January across all states and territories, ending the previous practice where some states observed it on a Friday for a long weekend.
As our nation evolves, so does the way we mark this day, ensuring it reflects the current values of respect, inclusion, and community.
A thoughtful approach to celebrations
In line with the 2025 Australia Day theme “Reflect, Respect, Celebrate” Burnie is embracing more inclusive and meaningful ways to mark these occasions:
📅 Australia Day Festivities (26 January): By Supporting a family-friendly celebration of our diverse community, acknowledging our shared history and future.
📅 Citizenship Ceremonies (various dates): Holding dedicated, respectful events welcoming new Australians throughout the year in a way that gives them the recognition they deserve.
📅 Community Recognition Awards (May): Aligning these awards with National Volunteering Week highlights our local heroes, emphasising their importance in our community.
The benefits of this approach:
✔ Recognising Perspectives – We acknowledge that 26 January date holds different meanings for different Australians, including Aboriginal Australians.
✔ Respectful Welcoming – Holding citizenship ceremonies on dates throughout the year ensures new citizens are welcomed with full focus and respect.
✔ Meaningful Recognition – Linking local community awards with National Volunteering Week amplifies appreciation for local achievements and for those who give back.
Making a Better Burnie 2044 key alignments
Burnie’s approach reflects our commitment to respect, inclusion, and unity, ensuring that our celebrations evolve in a way that strengthens our community for the future.
It also aligns with the long-term goals of the Making Burnie Better 2044 strategy, fostering culturally rich, vibrant, and inclusive communities.
1. Making Culturally Rich and Vibrant Communities
• Recognising and respecting the diverse perspectives of First Nations and all community members fosters inclusivity and social harmony.
• Supporting family-friendly celebrations acknowledging our shared Australian history, diverse backgrounds, and collective future helps unite our community.
• Holding citizenship ceremonies throughout the year allows us to focus on fully embracing and welcoming new Australians in a meaningful and respectful way.
2. Making Democratic and Engaged Communities
• Acknowledging different viewpoints ensures the Council remains responsive to community sentiment.
• Providing and supporting inclusive events strengthens public confidence in local governance and decision-making.
3. Making Liveable Local Communities
• Supporting events that unite individuals and respect their backgrounds fosters a sense of belonging and social cohesion.
• Ensuring celebrations are welcoming and inclusive helps make Burnie a place where everyone feels valued.
By balancing celebration with cultural awareness, this approach reflects Burnie’s commitment to respect, inclusion, and unity, shaping a city that continues to evolve in a way that benefits all residents.