Victorians were invited to a range of events to respect, reflect and celebrate Australia Day 2023, including family-friendly activities at Fed Square and the return of the annual Government House Open Day.
Day of reflection
The Victorian Government recognises 26 January represents a day of mourning and reflection for some Victorians, and is a challenging time for First Peoples. The Victorian Government is committed to addressing past and ongoing injustices through Treaty and the truth-telling work of the Yoorrook Justice Commission.
Day of celebration
Australia Day 2023 was marked first by ceremony, with a flag-raising ceremony hosted at Government House and the traditional 21-gun salute hosted at the lower forecourt at the Shrine of Remembrance.
Victorian emergency services personnel were invited to the flag-raising ceremony at Government House to acknowledge their efforts responding to and leading recovery from the Victorian floods beginning in October 2022.
At Fed , an all-day program commenced at 10am and ran late into the night as guests were invited to watch the Australian Open women's tennis semi-final. The day's program included vibrant musical acts, workshops and hands-on activities, and free food.
At Government , the Open Day gave guests the opportunity to explore the grounds and State Apartments, picnic on the Western Lawn, listen to a variety of musical acts, and find out more about community groups such as the Royal Flying Doctor Service, Country Women's Association, Museums Victoria and Collingwood Children's Farm, among others.
In the skies above, the Royal Australian Airforce's acrobatics team The Roulettes put on a spectacular display, visible from both Government House and Fed Square.
Australia Day Victoria thanks our presenting partners
Assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council.
Reviewed 30 January 2023