The Adelaide Hills Council has reversed its 2023 decision not to hold citizenship ceremonies, confer awards or support community events on the 26th of January.
Councillors voted 10 to one on Tuesday night to bring citizenship and civic awards ceremonies back to Australia Day from 2027, while still giving residents the option of attending a ceremony or receiving an award on another date.
The council will also establish a new community event grant program, with up to $7,500 available each year to support eligible local community and not-for-profit events held on or around January 26. Individual organisations will be able to apply for up to $1,500 per event.
The decision marks a reversal of the council’s 2023 position, which was made in recognition of the significance of January 26 for First Nations people. The council said its new position would continue to uphold its commitment to reconciliation, First Nations recognition and inclusion.
Mayor Nathan Daniell, who supported the 2023 decision, said the council needed to be prepared to reflect on its decisions and adjust its approach after hearing from the community.
“There are many people in our community for whom 26 January is an important day of celebration, citizenship and connection,” Mayor Daniell said.
“Equally, for many First Nations people it is a day associated with loss, dispossession and reflection.”
The council will also undertake further engagement with First Nations people, cultural authorities, stakeholders and the wider community about how reconciliation, First Nations history and cultural perspectives can be incorporated into activities associated with the 26th of January.
The reversal follows sustained community campaigning for the council to reconsider its 2023 decision, including a petition signed by more than 1,000 people.
