Australia National Day

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a formal press statement on January 25, 2026, extending warm wishes to the Australian people on the eve of their national holiday, Australia Day, highlighting the enduring alliance between the two nations. The statement, released from Washington D.C., represents the official position of the United States government in recognizing Australia's national day. Australia Day commemorates the arrival of the First Fleet at Sydney Cove in 1788 and marks the beginning of British colonization. While the holiday is celebrated nationwide with various events and ceremonies, it has also become increasingly controversial in recent years, with Indigenous Australians referring to it as 'Invasion Day' and protesting against the celebration of a date that symbolizes dispossession and cultural destruction. Secretary Rubio's message comes at a time when the US-Australia relationship continues to strengthen through various bilateral agreements and strategic partnerships, with the statement emphasizing the mutual respect and shared values that form the foundation of their alliance, which has been further reinforced through initiatives like the AUKUS security partnership announced in 2021.