CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA January 26, 2026 – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has delivered a heartfelt Australia Day address, urging Australians to come together in celebration of the nation’s shared history and future aspirations, following a challenging summer marked by the tragic Bondi Beach terrorist attack.
In a video message posted on X (formerly Twitter), Albanese emphasized unity and resilience, stating, “On Australia Day, we come together to celebrate everything that unites us as a nation and makes us the best country on earth.” He reflected on Australia’s rich history, acknowledging the “oldest continuous culture” of Indigenous peoples and their wisdom and resilience, while also welcoming new citizens pledging loyalty at citizenship ceremonies.
The Prime Minister highlighted the collective responsibility to build a stronger, fairer country for future generations, noting that Australia’s achievements are not due to luck but “countless acts of service, courage, and kindness” by people working together. Addressing recent hardships, Albanese said, “Whilst this summer has tested our nation once again, as ever, in the worst of times we have seen the very best of Australian character.” This reference comes in the wake of the antisemitic terrorist attack at Bondi Beach in December 2025, which claimed 15 lives and prompted a National Day of Mourning on January 22, 2026.
Albanese, who earlier expressed being “profoundly sorry” for the government’s inability to prevent the attack, used the Australia Day message to pivot toward hope and pride. “Let us look to the year ahead, united by pride in our country and faith in each other,” he concluded, wishing all a happy Australia Day.
The message, posted on X under the handle @AlboMP , has garnered significant attention, with over 11,000 views, 269 likes, and hundreds of replies. Reactions on the platform were mixed, reflecting ongoing debates about national identity, immigration, and the date of Australia Day.
Positive responses praised Albanese’s efforts to foster unity. One user, @eatatjoe2 , wrote, “Frankly, on Australia Day eve, I couldn’t be more thankful that we have a P.M. who gets how to govern, 4 all of us… Go @AlboMP !” Another, @Kate3015 , shared a video message celebrating Australia’s achievements, stating, “We should all be rightly proud of Australia… You can acknowledge injustice and still feel pride.”
However, critics were vocal, with some accusing the Prime Minister of divisive policies. @r3tarddownunder replied, “That was a bunch of retarded waffle. Happy Australia Day. We will not let you destroy our country.” Others echoed concerns about immigration and cultural erosion, with @JarrodHamptonx stating, “We’re going to show you today that no matter what you try to do you can’t erase Australia.”
The address comes amid renewed discussions on Australia Day’s significance. Recent polls indicate record support for retaining January 26 as the national holiday, with even Generation Z largely in favor. A Sky News poll showed strong backing across demographics, despite ongoing protests by Indigenous groups who view the date as “Invasion Day.” Albanese affirmed he would “absolutely” celebrate on January 26, calling it a “wonderful thing.”
Western Australian leaders noted that Australia Day 2026 holds extra meaning in the aftermath of the Bondi massacres, emphasizing national resilience. The Albanese Government has also allocated $10 million in grants to support a record 869 events nationwide, aiming to promote community gatherings.
Additionally, the 2026 Australians of the Year were announced, recognizing individuals for their contributions to society. As the nation observes the holiday, Albanese’s call for unity resonates against a backdrop of healing and reflection.
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