Devonport Council is set to reconsider the timing of its annual Australia Day Citizenship and Awards Ceremony, in line with options permitted by the federal government. Councillor Steve Martin has submitted a notice of motion to hold the event three days either side of Australia Day, rather than on the day itself.
The motion, if supported, would rescind a previous motion passed in 2018 that called for the ceremony to be held on Australia Day. The new motion would provide Council with the option to hold the event on the eve of Australia Day, as well as other days to avoid weekend and long weekend dates, staff availability and increased costs.
Council has previously held its Australia Day Citizenship and Awards Ceremony on the eve of Australia Day, with the timing of the event (5.30pm) well received and attended. By holding the event on days other than Australia Day, citizens would have a choice in how they would like to reflect, respect, and celebrate the national holiday with their family and friends.
The change in regulations regarding Australia Day events has given Council some flexibility in the dates on which to hold any activities. The date of Australia Day continues to be a contentious issue, and further changes could be instigated by the Federal Government in the future. A workshop will be conducted to allow councillors an opportunity to discuss the matter in detail and consider Devonport’s approach for 2024.
Matthew Atkins, General Manager, has endorsed the motion, and it will be discussed at the upcoming Council Meeting on 27 February 2023. The outcome of the motion will determine the future timing of Devonport’s annual Australia Day Citizenship and Awards Ceremony.