Australia Day celebrations are off the calendar at more than 200 pubs and bars across the country. The Australian Venue Co (AVC), which owns these venues, announced they won’t be acknowledging Australia Day in 2025, citing the “sadness” and “hurt” the day causes for some in the community.
AVC, Australia’s second-largest pub group, made it clear this decision was about inclusivity. “We celebrate what makes Australia great year-round,” a spokesperson explained. “But Australia Day can be difficult for some of our patrons and staff, so we’ve chosen not to mark it.”
This move aligns with a growing trend among businesses. Earlier this year, Woolworths sparked controversy by deciding not to stock Australia Day-specific merchandise. The backlash led to calls for boycotts and even threats against staff. In response, the supermarket later sold Australian flags ahead of the Paris Olympics, acknowledging they had misjudged customer expectations.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has previously emphasized the importance of acknowledging diverse perspectives on national identity, and this decision by AVC appears to echo that sentiment.
As for the venues, they include well-known spots across states, from Melbourne’s iconic Garden State Hotel to Brisbane’s Regatta Hotel and Sydney’s Bungalow8. While Australia Day celebrations won’t be happening at these locations, patrons can still enjoy everything else they have to offer throughout the year.
AVC’s stance is part of a broader conversation about how Australia chooses to commemorate its national day, reflecting a shift toward greater sensitivity and inclusivity in public spaces.
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