New Research Reveals Growing Resistance to Changing Australia Day Date
Recent research highlights a growing resistance among Australians to change the date of Australia Day from January 26. The Deakin Contemporary History Survey, a respected national study, has tracked attitudes concerning this contentious issue over the past five years. The latest findings indicate not only stable opinions but also a significant hardening of attitudes.
Australia Day Date Controversy
The Deakin survey revealed a notable trend in public opinion. In 2021, 38% of respondents believed Australia Day should not be celebrated on January 26. By late 2025, this figure had only slightly decreased to 37%. Meanwhile, support for the current date rose to 62%, compared to just over 60% in 2021. Overall, the community appears divided, with a ratio of approximately 40% favoring change and 60% preferring retention of the current date.
Shifts in Strong Opinions
While the general sentiment has remained consistent, the strength of opposition has intensified. The portion of individuals who strongly disagreed with changing the date rose from 30% in 2021 to 38% in 2025. Conversely, those who simply disagreed decreased from 31% to 26%. The survey results also demonstrate that the hardening of views is not confined to a specific demographic.
Demographics of Opinion
- Age: Among individuals aged 18–34, strong disagreement with changing the date increased from 16% to 23%. For those aged 55–74, this rose from 40% to 47%, and from 47% to 53% among those aged 75 and older.
- Gender: Strong disagreement rose from 36% to 41% for men and from 25% to 33% for women between 2021 and 2025.
These trends suggest a deepening divide within Australian society. Although younger Australians continue to show more support for changing the date, the increasing intensity of opposition among various age and gender groups is notable.
Contextual Factors Behind the Trends
The current political and social landscape may contribute to these hardened views. Following the unsuccessful 2023 Voice referendum, the debate surrounding Indigenous rights gained renewed scrutiny. Only 48% of survey participants in 2025 agreed that renaming places to reflect Indigenous histories is appropriate, indicating reluctance to engage in truth-telling processes.
Moreover, the rise in support for more hardline political figures, as seen with groups like One Nation, reflects a broader trend of right-wing populism. This political climate often emphasizes European imperialism rather than challenging its historical context.
The Path Forward
As attitudes toward Australia Day evolve, strong leadership from both politicians and community leaders will be essential. Significant effort is needed to bridge the widening divide in public opinion regarding Indigenous recognition and the celebration of national identity.
