On Australia Day we come together as a nation to celebrate what is great about Australia and being Australian. Even though the date 26 January has been recognised since the early nineteenth century it was not until 1935 that all the Australian states and territories used that name to mark that date. Australia Day has been observed as a national public holiday since 1994.
Hundreds of celebrations are held across Australia, both formal and informal. It is the day to reflect on what Australia has achieved and what we can be proud of in our great nation. It is also the day to re-commit to making Australia an even better place for the future.
In Kings Park, the traditional 21 Gun Salute fires at noon on Australia Day from the State War Memorial and the Fraser Avenue precinct offers an excellent viewing opportunity during the Australia Day Skyworks on 26 January each year.
Road closures routinely occur in Kings Park during this event. The Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority promotes a smoke-free and glass-free venue. A total fire ban is in place for the day, which means that sparklers and portable barbecues are not permitted. Dogs are not permitted in the park.
Entry is by gold coin donation to the Friends of Kings Park, with all donations directed to the conservation of Western Australian flora, improving visitor facilities and maintaining some of our State's significant cultural and memorial sites.