Australia Day 2027
Australia's official national day, marking the arrival of the First Fleet at Sydney Cove in 1788.
Quick facts
- Date
- January 26
- Day of the week
- Tuesday in 2027
- Type
- National
- Observed in
- Australia
- Also known as
- Also observed by many as Survival Day or Invasion Day
- Public holiday
- Public holiday
- Hashtag
- #AustraliaDay
Overview
Australia Day, on January 26, is Australia's official national day, with citizenship ceremonies, community events and the Australian of the Year awards. The date marks the arrival of the First Fleet of British ships at Sydney Cove in 1788.
For many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people the date marks the beginning of colonisation and dispossession, and it is observed as a day of mourning, survival and protest. Debate about the date continues.
History
The First Fleet arrived at Sydney Cove on January 26, 1788. The date has been a public holiday in all states and territories since 1994.
How to celebrate
Attend a citizenship ceremony
Welcome new Australians in your local council.
Learn First Nations history
Explore the history and cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Wishes and messages
Greeting card
A 1080 × 1080 image, ready for WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram.
Social media captions
Celebrating community on January 26. #AustraliaDay
Australia Day dates
| Year | Date | Day of the week | Days from today |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | January 26 | Monday | Passed |
| 2027 | January 26 | Tuesday | 85 |
| 2028 | January 26 | Wednesday | 450 |
| 2029 | January 26 | Friday | 816 |
| 2030 | January 26 | Saturday | 1,181 |
| 2031 | January 26 | Sunday | 1,546 |
Frequently asked questions
When is Australia Day?
Every year on January 26.
Why is the date debated?
It marks the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788, which many First Nations people regard as the start of colonisation.
Last updated November 2, 2026