Australia Day vs Invasion Day

25/01/12

Media reports today suggest that Peter Garrett wants Australian school students to be taught that Australia Day is also Invasion Day.

“Australia Day is not simply a day to mark the arrival of the First Fleet. In its historical context that is the day the colony of New South Wales was founded,” said Christopher Pyne, Shadow Minister for Education.

“Australia Day is the national holiday when we celebrate the achievements and the great nation that Australia has become over almost 225 years. That includes the achievements of both indigenous and non-indigenous Australians,” he said.

“It is important for all Australians to know about the mistakes that past generations and individuals have made and human nature being what it is will continue to make, but Australia Day should be a day of celebration and a source of pride for all Australians not a day for political agendas and the history wars,” Mr Pyne said.