The Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) is proud to be the first organisation to put its support behind Clothing the Gaps ‘Not a date to celebrate’ petition.

The petition which currently has over 20,000 signatures, calls for meaningful action to ensure January 26 is no longer celebrated as Australia Day.

VACCHO CEO Dr Jill Gallagher AO says the petition represents a rallying cry that is long overdue.

“Each year we find ourselves in the same place, trying to explain why January 26 is not a date that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people want to celebrate.”

“This petition is a significant step in the right direction, calling for urgent recognition from the Federal Government that January 26 is not a date our nation should be proud of.”

While the petition does not propose an alternative date, it calls for a clear timeline and a commitment from government to engage in meaningful dialogue with all Australians, especially Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Founder of Clothing the Gaps, Laura Thompson, says continuing to celebrate on January 26 disregards the voices and lived experiences of First Nations people.

“This celebration, which only became an official public holiday in 1994, fails to embody the values of unity, respect, and reconciliation.”

“Prime Minister Albanese has already rejected calls to change Australia Day, so by signing this petition, we are urging him to demonstrate leadership and reconsider. To acknowledge the profound significance of this date and the harm that celebrating on that date continues to inflict on Indigenous communities.” Ms Thompson said.

Dr Gallagher says this is an opportunity for our government to demonstrate true commitment to the values of inclusion and respect.

“A new date is needed which not only recognises everything Australia has become since 26 January 1788 but also recognises the rich and vibrant Aboriginal culture and history that existed and thrived long before the First Fleet ever arrived upon these shores.”

“As a proud Aboriginal woman, I want nothing more than to celebrate this amazing country with all Australians – but January 26 is not that date,” Dr Gallagher said.

To sign the petition, click here

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