Australia Day Celebrations in Western Australia: Fireworks, Festivities and National Reflection
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called upon Australians to unite in celebration of the best country on earth as families across Western Australia gear up for Australia Day with traditional barbecues, backyard gatherings, and evening skyward gazes. While the nation's south-east endures sweltering heat, Perth is forecast for an unseasonably cool maximum of just 23 degrees Celsius, with possible rain showers that may lead to smaller crowds at coastal beaches.
Citizenship Ceremonies Welcome New Australians
The day will commence for many with citizenship ceremonies, where individuals will officially become new Australians or receive local civic awards. The City of Perth is set to embrace 71 people from 31 different countries in a single ceremony, while regional centres like Mandurah and Busselton will welcome even larger numbers, with over 80 newcomers taking the pledge at each location.
Spectacular Fireworks and Entertainment Across Perth
Western Australia's most impressive fireworks display is scheduled to ignite the Perth CBD skyline at 8:30pm, featuring a dazzling drone show and preceded by a skydiving exhibition. Meanwhile, the Rockingham foreshore will host four hours of activities from 5pm, culminating in a beachfront pyrotechnics finale. After last year's cancellation due to train line works, Armadale's Minnawarra Park fireworks return with renewed vigour.
Organisers are encouraging early arrival for prime viewing spots, particularly with pop sensation Ricki-Lee performing free with her band from 7:30pm before the main skyshow. Additional Perth afternoon attractions include live Indigenous and multicultural performances, carnival rides, and an exhilarating BMX stunt show. Riverside Drive will close to traffic from 2pm, followed by Terrace Road an hour later.
Reflective National Mood and Prime Minister's Address
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese struck a contemplative tone in his national Australia Day message, acknowledging the extraordinary privilege of sharing this continent with the world's oldest continuous culture. He urged the nation to look forward with hope following a challenging summer that included last month's tragic terrorism incident at Bondi Beach.
In the worst of times, we have seen the very best of the Australian character, Mr Albanese stated, encouraging unity through national pride and mutual faith. The Australia Day Live concert in Sydney will feature performances by Cody Simpson, Kate Ceberano, and Jude York, including a tribute to those affected by recent national tragedies.
Protest Activity and Police Presence
Reflecting evolving national conversations, both change the date protests and counter-protests are planned for midday in the Perth CBD. Western Australia Police have confirmed no specific intelligence indicating heightened threats but will maintain visible policing at community events to ensure peaceful celebrations for all participants.
Last year's main Perth event attracted approximately 70,000 spectators, significantly reduced from peak attendance exceeding 400,000 in the early 2000s, indicating shifting public sentiment around Australia Day commemorations.
