Pom in Oz with Derek Goforth: Why I support changing Australia Day date and it’s nothing about shame, guilt

Once again the school holidays are nearing their end, signalling a return to normality and routine for many parents and teachers. However, there is one event that still awaits us — anticipated by many, dreaded by some, and protested against by an increasing number —Australia Day. My perspective on this day has evolved over the years, and I am among those who do not celebrate it. I would like to share why. As I type this, I am aware that my opinion may stir up some controversy, but so be it. There is considerable debate on the meaning of the day, its significance and the activities people should engage in. I wholeheartedly agree that we should have an Australia Day — a day to revel, be merry, and celebrate the beauty of this part of the world we inhabit. However, I cannot fathom why it must continue to be celebrated on January 26. One undisputed fact is that Arthur Phillip arrived at Sydney Cove and raised the Union Jack on January 26, 1788. In doing so, he founded the Colony of New South Wales and, simultaneously, initiated the dispossession and marginalisation of Indigenous people. Why this date, chosen to celebrate all things Aussie, must persist remains a puzzle to me. Yes, there is an argument that we should move on from 1788, and Indigenous people, along with their supporters, should cease complaining. Some even argue that if the date is changed, Indigenous people will find another reason to complain. However, knowing strong Indigenous men and women, I can confidently say that this is not the case. So, why don’t I celebrate Australia Day? Simply put, I have Indigenous friends, and witnessing some of their heartfelt pain and sorrow as a nation celebrates an event marking the start of a long period of oppression for their people makes it impossible for me to participate. I wonder if any Brit can empathise. I can’t even begin to understand or feel the pain I may cause by witnessing people being “merry” on a day that holds such negative significance for them. So when should we celebrate it? If it were up to me (thankfully, it isn’t), I would not choose a specific date but rather keep it on the first Monday or Friday in March, May, or another month away from other significant events. Why? Because having it on a Monday or Friday means a long weekend, and who doesn’t love those? If a date must be chosen, then perhaps May 9, commemorating the day in 1901 when our first Parliament opened. For me, this has nothing to do with being “ashamed to be an Aussie” or feeling remorse or guilt. I am proud to be an Aussie and celebrate that fact nearly every day. However, I also acknowledge that as a citizen, I am part and parcel of my country’s history and need to recognise the dark times as well as the light. Derek Goforth is an expat of 13 years and father of three living in Geraldton