Australia Day is for all Australians, no matter where our personal stories began. On Australia Day, we celebrate the things we love most about being Australian – our lifestyle, a sense of fair go, our shared values and cultural heritage, our connection to land, but most importantly, our people.
Australia Day is our nation’s largest annual public celebration, and across Victoria there are hundreds of community events showcasing our diverse community and recognising those who make a difference to the lives of others.
For people in and around Melbourne this Australia Day, there are a range of free family-friendly events in Melbourne’s CBD to entertain all audiences!
Official Flag Raising Ceremony
Date: Friday 26 January 2018, 10.30 – 11.00am
Location: Outside Melbourne Town Hall, Corner Collins and Swanston Street, Melbourne CBD
The Official Flag Raising Ceremony marks the beginning of Melbourne’s Australia Day celebration. Attended by the Governor of Victoria, the Premier of Victoria, the Lord Mayor of the City of Melbourne and other dignitaries, the Official Flag Raising ceremony features an inspection of the Tri-Service Royal Guard of Honour, the Australia Day Affirmation and the singing of the Australian National Anthem.
Australia Day Parade
Date: Friday 26 January 2018, 11.00am – 11:45am Location: Swanston Street, Melbourne CBD
Immediately following the Official Flag Raising Ceremony, spectators will be treated to a vibrant public display of our diverse community with more than 1,000 participants from over 80 community and cultural groups taking part in Melbourne’s annual Australia Day Parade.
Nurture a sense of belonging by cheering on participants from a range of multicultural dancing and music groups, sporting and cultural associations, cosplayers and more!
2018 RACV Australia Day Festival in Kings Domain Gardens
Date: Friday 26 January 2018, 11.00am-4.00pm Location: Kings Domain Gardens
The RACV Australia Day Festival in Kings Domain Gardens is a long-standing Australia Day event in one of Melbourne’s beautiful city gardens. This much-loved event is held after the Australia Day Parade, continuing the theme of togetherness and belonging with free family focussed activities, displays from a broad range of community groups and the 2018 RACV Australia Day Heritage Vehicle Showcase.
Foodies will enjoy vibrant street food and a festive atmosphere in our Food Truck Park, and families will love our main stage program complete with kids’ yoga, bands and our headline act, Peppa Pig.
Australia Day at Docklands
Date: Friday 26 January 2018, 6.00pm – 9.30pm Fireworks at 9:00pm
Location: Harbour Esplanade, Docklands
Finish your day at our fireworks spectacular down at Docklands!
Located along Harbour Esplanade, the Australia Day at Docklands celebration will keep the family entertained with roaming artists, entertainment and Melbourne’s most loved food trucks, with the event culminating in a spectacular firework display at 9.00pm.
Attracting 16,000 people in 2017, the Australia Day at Docklands celebration and fireworks is one not to be missed.
Other Australia Day Victoria events
Official Australia Day Luncheon
Date: Thursday 18 January 2018
Location: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
The Official Australia Day Luncheon is the premiere launch event for Australia Day celebrations in Victoria each year. Hosted by the Premier of Victoria and attended by the Governor of Victoria and other dignitaries, the luncheon is Melbourne’s premiere B2B Australia Day function providing business, community and arts leaders the opportunity to share in the community spirit of Australia Day.
The 2018 Australia Post Legends Awards, which recognise exceptional Australians who are a source of inspiration and pride for our nation, will also be announced during the Luncheon.
To purchase a ticket to the luncheon, please visit http://www.australiaday.vic.gov.au/luncheon2018.
Traveling to and from Australia Day events is easy when you use public transport. Avoid road closures and travel free within the free CBD tram zone by planning your trip at ptv.vic.gov.au or call 1800 800 007.
For more information about Australia Day events in Victoria visit www.australiaday.vic.gov.au. Share the fun on social media this Australia Day by using #AustraliaDayVictoria
