Rallies, ceremonies and other events are being held across the country for January 26, calling for a change to the date of Australia's national day, as well as honouring the resilience and strength of First Nations communities.

In Naarm/Melbourne, thousands gathered on the steps of Parliament house to protest the celebration of January 26 as Australia Day, with Elders calling for a change of the date to loud cheers from the crowd.

A diverse group of people, including children, students and the elderly, held up signs calling for the closing of Don Dale, "change the date" and "stop the genocide."

Chants of "always was, always will be" by speakers and the MC were met with the response: "Aboriginal land" by the crowd in unison.

One speaker argued changing the date from January 26 was an inclusive move.

"There is nothing to lose but so much to gain. Australia is the only Commonwealth country that doesn't have a treaty with its First Nations people," they said.

"We are the oldest living culture in the world; Isn't that something to be proud of and acknowledged, not swept under the rug."

Mentions of genocide were greeted with "shame" from the crowd, and boos rung out when the Victorian opposition's decision to end their support of Treaty was mentioned.