‘Pain and Sadness’: Australian Football League Clubs Call for Change to Australia Day

North Melbourne and Western Bulldogs called for a date change, while Port Adelaide said they respect everyone’s ‘right to choose’ how they reflect on today.

A general view of the crowd during the 2023 AFL Grand Final match between the Collingwood Magpies and the Brisbane Lions at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia on Sept. 30, 2023. Russell Freeman/AFL via Getty Images

Football and rugby clubs have joined Cricket Australia’s stance on Australia Day, coming out in force with statements, with some supporting a complete change of date for the national day.

As Australians celebrate a public holiday on Jan. 26 with citizenship ceremonies and barbecues, multiple clubs have weighed in on the debate with public statements.