Almost half of First Nations people who participated in a City of Greater Geelong survey said January 26 was not a day of celebration and change was needed.
The City commissioned the survey to seek feedback from the region’s First Nations people about 26 January, which is currently celebrated as Australia Day.
The first stage of the conversation started with First Nations People and included online surveys, two forums in Corio and Central Geelong, and face-to-face discussions.
The survey found 45 per cent of participants had negative feelings towards the date.
Twenty-four per cent expressed positive feelings towards 26 January while the remaining 30 per cent expressed neutral or mixed feelings or said they feel no engagement or connection with the day.
A total of 173 responses were received.
The second stage of the feedback will include the border community through an online survey, a pop-up session at the Geelong Show, presentations to key groups, and a public forum on Tuesday October 25 at Wurrki Nyal, 137-149 Mercer St, Geelong. Places are limited and registrations will be taken via Eventbrite.
“We received very strong feedback to the first stage of engagement – 173 survey responses – which is the largest we have ever experienced from the First Nations community on any issue,” mayor Peter Murrihy said.
“There are many painful stories of the history of Geelong, from colonisation and the Frontier Wars to the Stolen Generations. There are also many positive stories to be shared. Truth telling and education is important to healing and to be able to move forward together as the whole community of Geelong.”
The City said it would continue to honour the requirement of holding citizenship ceremonies on January 26 as per a directive from the federal government.
