A petition calling for the federal government to reconsider January 26th as Australia's national day has reached 20,000 signatures, with organisers setting a new goal of 25,000.

Launched by Clothing The Gaps on 22 September 2024, the petition is addressed to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

It urges the government to recognise that January 26 is not a date for national celebration but one of mourning and survival for First Nations people.

January 26 marks the date Arthur Phillip led the First Fleet into what is now known as Sydney Cove in New South Wales in 1788. He raised a British flag on the land of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation to proclaim British Sovereignty.

For Indigenous communities, it symbolises the invasion of their lands, the beginning of genocide, the disruption of cultures, and an ongoing legacy of trauma.

"This is an opportunity for the government to show real leadership and respect," the petition states.

"Acknowledging the pain associated with January 26 is not about division—it's about healing."

The petition highlights that while Australia promotes itself as an inclusive nation, continuing to celebrate on this date disregards the lived experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Although Australia Day only became a national public holiday in 1994, calls to change the date have been repeatedly dismissed by successive governments.

Prime Minister Albanese has previously rejected proposals to alter the date, but petitioners are urging him to reconsider.

The campaign does not advocate for an alternative date but calls for a government commitment to a clear timeline and meaningful dialogue with all Australians, particularly Indigenous communities.

The push to reach 25,000 signatures reflects growing public support for a national conversation about the significance of Australia Day and its impact on First Nations people.

The petition is on change.org.