What Can I Say Instead Of Happy Australia Day 2025

Australia Day, celebrated annually on January 26th, has become a day of reflection, dialogue, and rethinking traditions for many Australians. While historically observed as a national holiday to commemorate the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788, the date has become increasingly contentious, with some seeing it as a day of celebration and others recognizing it as a painful reminder of colonization and its lasting impact on Indigenous Australians.

If you’re seeking an alternative to saying “Happy Australia Day” in 2025 that is inclusive and respectful of the diverse perspectives surrounding this day, you’re not alone. Many people are rethinking traditions and choosing expressions that foster unity rather than division. This blog explores meaningful alternatives that reflect the complexity of the day and open pathways for connection, understanding, and respect.

Why “Happy Australia Day” Can Be Problematic

For many people, January 26th is not a date of national pride but one of sorrow and mourning. Referred to as “Survival Day” or “Invasion Day” by First Nations peoples and their allies, this date marks the beginning of displacement, violence, and systemic injustice for Indigenous communities.

By celebrating the day with a “Happy Australia Day” greeting, it’s possible to unintentionally dismiss the lived experiences of Indigenous Australians. Choosing the right words, therefore, matters deeply, as it sets the tone for inclusivity and acknowledges diverse viewpoints.

Consider Context When Choosing Alternatives

Before exploring specific alternatives, think about your audience and the context. Are you addressing colleagues, social media followers, or close friends and family? Intent plays a big part in how others perceive your words, so aim to be thoughtful and open to discussion.

Questions to Consider:

Do you know how the person you’re speaking to feels about January 26th?
Are you looking to make a personal or professional statement?
Are you open to engaging in conversations about the history and significance of the day?

With context in mind, here are some alternatives that respect Australia’s shared history and honor a growing need for reconciliation.

Inclusive Alternatives to “Happy Australia Day”

1. “Wishing you a reflective January 26th”

This greeting acknowledges the complexity of the day. It suggests a tone of thoughtfulness and invites individuals to approach the date with intention, rather than a carefree sense of celebration.

2. “Thinking of all Australians today”

By using inclusive language, you shift the focus of the day towards national unity and acknowledgment of everyone’s unique experiences and feelings on this date.

3. “Take today to connect and reflect”

This alternative encourages introspection and meaningful conversations, emphasizing the importance of community and reconciliation.

4. “Reflecting on our shared history”

Highlighting the historical element of the day invites listeners or readers to consider the broader context of Australia’s past and its impact on present and future generations.

5. “Respecting all voices on January 26th”

This phrase signals a commitment to inclusivity and recognition of diverse perspectives, particularly those of Indigenous Australians.

6. “Wishing you togetherness and understanding today”

This warm and empathetic greeting encourages connection, understanding, and unity, without ignoring the fact that the day holds different meanings for different people.