THE future of Australia Day events across the Kingston local government area is under consideration.
Community consultation opened last week on council’s role in Australia Day events. Kingston mayor Georgina Oxley said “we’re keen to explore how we can support inclusive, welcoming and locally meaningful ways to mark Australia Day.”
“This is about bringing people together and making sure any future events or activities reflect the diversity, pride and community spirit we see right across Kingston,” she said. “Australia Day is a time when people come together in different ways, and we want to hear what that looks like for our community here in Kingston. From beach days and barbecues to community events and celebrations, this is an opportunity for people to share what they enjoy most, and how they think council can help support those experiences into the future.”
The consultation was triggered by a vote earlier this year, when councillors agreed to consult with residents on establishing public Australia Day celebrations commencing 26 January 2027. The proposal, which was slated to include “targeted engagement with youth groups, to understand community interest, expectations, and preferred celebration formats” and “targeted engagement with multicultural organisations, community groups, sporting clubs and trader associations to explore hosting ‘local street party’ style events in prominent, high-visibility and public transport–accessible locations”, was passed with the support of Crs Georgina Oxley, Chris Howe, Georgia Erevnidis, Sarah O’Donnell, and Jane Agirtan. (“Community consultation on Australia Day, The Times, 5/3/2026)
In a statement, Kingston Council confirmed it would “reach out to local First Nations representatives and Traditional Owners” on the proposed changes.
“Currently, council recognises Australia Day through a very special citizenship ceremony welcoming hundreds of new citizens, and by sponsoring the annual Mordialloc Carnival fireworks display,” the Kingston Council statement read.
Measures set to be considered are the expansion of public events and increased visibility of the Australian flag across Kingston.
Submissions on the matter close on 27 April, with a report set to come back to Kingston Council in June. To make a submission visit yourkingstonyoursay.com.au/australia-day
First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News – 8 April 2026