Both Cricket and Tennis Australia have faced criticism for choosing not to acknowledge Australia Day during significant tournaments. Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley reversed the decision after reports emerged that the organization would not mention Australia Day during a test match against the West Indies. Hockley clarified that announcements at the matches would indeed reference Australia Day. He explained that Cricket Australia had refrained from including Australia Day in promotional material for the past four years and that this would continue into this year. Hockley acknowledged that while many people celebrate Australia Day, for Indigenous Australians, it is a very difficult day. The Australian Open organizers also decided not to mark Australia Day for the second consecutive year.
The Australia Day debate intensified as Opposition Leader Peter Dutton called on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to take a stand on the issue. Dutton urged the Prime Minister to assert that Australia Day should be celebrated, criticizing Cricket Australia and other companies for not embracing the holiday. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Albanese emphasized the need for unity and respect for differing viewpoints, stating that people will celebrate or have differing perspectives about the day.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns and Former Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett also urged sporting bodies to reconsider their decisions. Amidst the controversy, Woolworths, Aldi, and Kmart announced decisions not to stock Australia Day merchandise, sparking a public backlash. Woolworths CEO Brad Banducci clarified that the decision was based on declining sales and the lead time required for merchandise decisions. He emphasized that the company would focus on providing Australian fresh food and expressed concern about media coverage negatively impacting their employees.