$10 million allocated for Australia Day celebrations 2025

The Albanese Government has announced a $10 million commitment to celebrate Australia Day, indicating strong support for the national holiday. The funding aims to assist the National Australia Day Council in organizing community events across the country for January 26. Treasurer Jim Chalmers, during the Federal Budget release, emphasized the council's mission to encourage shared celebrations and recognition through initiatives like the Australian of the Year Awards. The government is also investing heavily in tourism infrastructure, with major projects planned, including a new multi-billion-dollar stadium in Brisbane for the Olympic Games. In addition to the Australia Day funding, hundreds of millions are being allocated to various projects. Highlights include an $88 million investment for significant developments in Cairns, which will expand the marine precinct and fund a new university campus. The government is also contributing $7 million to keep giant pandas at the Adelaide Zoo. Other allocations include $3.1 million to turn Lightning Ridge into a global tourism destination and $1.5 million for upgrades to the Qtopia museum in Sydney. The government also plans to enhance Indigenous tourism support, increasing funding dramatically to boost First Nations tourism businesses. Future developments will include a variety of cultural and educational facilities, with funding directed toward a new Aboriginal Cultural Centre in Perth and a Marine Discovery Centre in Busselton. Environmental efforts will see funding dedicated to eradicating invasive species in Far North Queensland. Overall, the budget reflects a clear push by the Albanese government to celebrate Australia Day while simultaneously investing in tourism and community projects across the nation.