Citizenship› Part 1› Important Days
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Important Days for Australians

Australia has two major national days that every citizen should know: Australia Day on 26 January, and Anzac Day on 25 April. Both are public holidays in every state and territory and hold deep significance for the nation.

26 January

Australia Day

National Celebration

Anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet from Great Britain in 1788. Australia's biggest annual public holiday. Celebrated with events across the country, including special citizenship ceremonies.

25 April

Anzac Day

Day of Remembrance

Named after the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC), which landed at Gallipoli in Türkiye during World War I on 25 April 1915.

Australia Day — 26 January

On 26 January each year, we celebrate Australia Day. It is a public holiday in every state and territory in Australia and is the biggest annual public holiday.

Australia Day is the anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet from Great Britain in 1788. On this day, communities across Australia reflect on our history and the people who have contributed to our shared achievements.

What Happens on Australia Day

The Prime Minister announces the Australian of the Year Awards in Canberra.

Australia Day is about acknowledging and celebrating the contribution that every Australian makes to our nation — from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have been here for approximately 65,000 years, to those who have lived here for generations, and those who have come from all corners of the globe. Special citizenship ceremonies are held across the country on this day.

Key Fact: Australia Day is on 26 January — the anniversary of the First Fleet arriving from Great Britain in 1788. The Prime Minister announces the Australian of the Year Awards in Canberra on this day.

Anzac Day — 25 April

Anzac Day is commemorated on 25 April each year. It is a solemn day when Australians remember the sacrifice of all those who served and died in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

The Story of Anzac Day

ANZAC stands for: Australian and New Zealand Army Corps
The landing: ANZAC forces landed at Gallipoli in Türkiye (Turkey) during World War I on 25 April 1915
Tone: A solemn day of remembrance — not a celebration
We remember: The sacrifice of all Australians who served and died in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations
We honour: The courage and commitment of all servicemen and women
Key Fact: Anzac Day is on 25 April. ANZAC = Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. They landed at Gallipoli in Türkiye during World War I on 25 April 1915.

Key Points to Remember

Quick Check

Score: 0/5
Question 1 of 5
When is Australia Day celebrated each year?
Why it matters: Australia Day is on 26 January — one of the most commonly tested dates. It commemorates the arrival of the First Fleet from Great Britain in 1788. Don't confuse it with Anzac Day (25 April).
Question 2 of 5
What does Australia Day commemorate?
Why it matters: Australia Day is the anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet on 26 January 1788. It is the biggest annual public holiday in Australia.
Question 3 of 5
When is Anzac Day commemorated?
Why it matters: Anzac Day is on 25 April — the day ANZAC forces landed at Gallipoli in 1915. It is a solemn day of remembrance, not a celebration.
Question 4 of 5
What does ANZAC stand for?
Why it matters: ANZAC stands for the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. They landed at Gallipoli in Türkiye during World War I on 25 April 1915. The acronym itself is commonly tested.
Question 5 of 5
What does the Prime Minister announce in Canberra during Australia Day celebrations?
Why it matters: During Australia Day celebrations, the Prime Minister announces the Australian of the Year Awards in Canberra. This highlights how Australia Day celebrates the contribution of all Australians.

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