Australia Day Unity Call amid Celebrations and Protests

‘Whilst this summer has tested our nation, once again, as ever, in the worst of times, we have seen the very best of the Australian character,’ said Albanese.

The sails of the Sydney Opera House are illuminated by a projection of artwork ‘Dancing in the Moonlight' by artist Garry Purchase during the Dawn Reflection ceremony in Sydney, Australia, on Jan. 26, 2026. George Chan/Getty Images

A mighty breaching whale, lit up on the Sydney Opera House’s sails, has heralded  Australia Day, as political leaders and police plead for calm across planned demonstrations.

Indigenous artist Garry Purchase’s artwork was the backdrop to early morning celebrations in Sydney, ahead of citizenship ceremonies and barbecues around the nation.