Despite the efforts of activists to abolish Australia Day, many young Australians aged 25-34 overwhelmingly support it as their national day. However, there is growing concern about the attitudes of younger Australians, as only 42% of those aged 18-24 support Australia Day on January 26. This raises questions about whether Australia is facing an existential crisis as these attitudes are reflected in trends of historical education. Activists’ efforts to teach young Australians about Australia Day has led them to see it not as a day of celebration, but one that represents Past injustices.
Encouragingly, the author notes that once free of these group-think institutions, young Australians aged 25-34 overwhelmingly support Australia Day, with 61% backing Jan. 26. Furthermore, research revealed that many of these young Australians have deep reservations about censorship; and think extreme political activism has gone too far, particularly on social issues. They also value freedom, home ownership, and small businesses. Therefore, political leaders should take the opportunity to address these priorities and engage well with Generation Z voters.
It is suggested that the problem lies with the education system and its relentless message that the development of modern Australia involved nothing other than invasion and genocide, which contradicts our society. The author argues that these elements go against the very values that Australia Day represents, and instead suggests that the National Curriculum, education sector, and political leaders, should take measures to ensure students are presented with a balanced account of history and cultural heritage.
The controversy around Australia Day is seen as an opportunity for politicians to address the priorities of young Australians and engage with the rising generation. By doing so, they would find a deep well of support and possibly provide Jann 26 with a new perspective, one that is reflective of both future aspirations and a balanced account of the past.