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How to Say Happy Australia Day 2025

Australia Day, celebrated annually on January 26, is a chance for Australians to come together, reflect on their history, and celebrate their culture. Whether you’re a long-time Aussie or new to the festivities, navigating how to acknowledge and celebrate Australia Day respectfully is more important than ever.

This guide explores different ways you can say “Happy Australia Day” in 2025—not just with words, but with thoughtful actions that show understanding, inclusivity, and joy. From traditional greetings to incorporating Indigenous perspectives, let’s make this year’s celebration meaningful for everyone.

The Importance of Saying It Respectfully

Acknowledging Australia Day with sensitivity doesn’t mean dismissing its celebratory nature. It means keeping in mind the diverse feelings people have toward the holiday. Some Indigenous Australians prefer alternative dates or focus on events that amplify their stories. By being mindful of your words and actions, you can celebrate in a way that acknowledges all voices.

Different Ways to Say “Happy Australia Day”

1. The Traditional Greeting

A simple “Happy Australia Day!” is always an option. It’s cheerful, direct, and works well in social settings like family barbecues or events with friends. However, context matters here—if you’re greeting someone who may view the day differently, adding an inclusive note can make a big difference.

For instance, you could say:

“Happy Australia Day! I hope you enjoy celebrating everything that makes our country unique.”

2. Acknowledging First Nations Australians

One meaningful way to show you’re mindful of the broader history is to acknowledge our country’s Indigenous roots. You could consider an alternative phrasing like:

“Wishing you a reflective Australia Day. Let’s take a moment to honor the traditional custodians of the land.”

Adding this recognition to your greeting shows awareness and respect for the pain that many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians associate with January 26.

3. Celebrate Australian Values

When celebrating, emphasize the cultural richness and resilience of all Australians. Phrasing your greetings around shared values of unity, diversity, and kindness can make your message resonate with a broader audience. Try saying:

“Happy Australia Day! Here’s to celebrating our shared love for Australia and its incredible diversity.”
“May your Australia Day be filled with mateship, community, and reflection.”

Actions That Speak Louder Than Words

It’s not just about how you say “Happy Australia Day,” but also what you do to back it up. Here are some ways to make your celebration meaningful:

1. Attend Inclusive Events

Every year, cities host various Australia Day events ranging from fireworks to cultural exhibitions. Research your local events to see which ones emphasize inclusion and celebrate both Indigenous and non-Indigenous histories. Some examples might include:

Welcome to Country ceremonies: Learn about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander traditions and cultures firsthand.
Sustainability fairs and multicultural food festivals: Celebrate contemporary Australian culture with eco-friendly practices and diverse cuisines.

2. Host a Respectful Gathering

If you’re celebrating at home with a gathering, consider incorporating Australian history into your activities. You could:

Display decorations like the Australian and Aboriginal flags side-by-side.
Share stories about famous Indigenous figures or play music by Australian Aboriginal artists like Archie Roach or Thelma Plum.

3. Support Indigenous-Owned Businesses

Another way to celebrate thoughtfully is by supporting local Indigenous businesses. Whether it’s buying native ingredients for your Australia Day barbecue or purchasing gifts featuring Aboriginal art, small gestures can contribute to broader change.