What Events Are Happening in Melbourne on Australia Day?

Australia Day is observed on 26 January, and in 2027 it falls on Tuesday, 26 January. It is a public holiday in Victoria.

If you're planning to spend Australia Day in Melbourne, there are several activities and events to consider, including Fed Square celebrations, the Government House Open Day, the 21-Gun Salute at the Shrine of Remembrance and First Nations cultural events. The day can also be a good opportunity to explore Melbourne's parks, museums and waterfront areas.

1. Australia Day at Fed Square

Fed Square is one of the central locations for Australia Day activities in Melbourne.

The 2027 program is listed for 26 January, with free family-friendly activities, food and live music. The advertised schedule runs from 10am to 7pm.

It can be a convenient option for visitors who want to enjoy entertainment in the heart of Melbourne without purchasing an event ticket.

Best for: Families, visitors and live entertainment

2. Government House Open Day

Government House Victoria traditionally opens its grounds to the public on Australia Day. For 2027, the open day is listed for 26 January from 10:30am to 3:30pm.

Visitors can explore the historic State Apartments and enjoy entertainment and activities around the gardens. Entry is listed as free, although visitors should expect security screening and bag checks.

Location: Government House Drive, Melbourne
Time: 10:30am–3:30pm
Cost: Free

3. 21-Gun Salute at the Shrine of Remembrance

A traditional Australia Day ceremony takes place at the Shrine of Remembrance, with a 21-gun salute by the Royal Australian Artillery.

For 2027, the event is scheduled for 12pm to 12:15pm at the Lower Forecourt. The ceremony is free to watch, although the salute is extremely loud, so visitors with young children or pets should keep this in mind.

Location: Shrine of Remembrance, St Kilda Road
Time: 12pm–12:15pm
Cost: Free

4. Share the Spirit at Treasury Gardens

Australia Day also provides an opportunity to learn about and experience Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.

The Share the Spirit 2027 event is listed at Treasury Gardens on 26 January. The program is described as a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, with First Nations music and family activities.

Location: Treasury Gardens, East Melbourne
Best for: First Nations culture, music and family activities

5. Australia Day Flag Raising Ceremony

The official Australia Day Flag Raising Ceremony marks the beginning of the day's official program.

The ceremony includes a Tri-Service Guard, Australia Day Affirmation and Australia's National Anthem. The 2027 ceremony is scheduled for 26 January, with the public able to watch via livestream from 9:30am.

6. Explore Melbourne's Summer Attractions

Not every Australia Day activity needs to be a formal event. Since January is summer in Melbourne, the public holiday can also be a good opportunity to explore the city's attractions.

Some options include:

• Royal Botanic Gardens

• Melbourne Museum

• National Gallery of Victoria

• Yarra River and Southbank

• Melbourne Skydeck

• Fitzroy Gardens

• Federation Square

Melbourne's official events calendar lists a range of January exhibitions, workshops, tours and entertainment.

Australia Day Events in Melbourne at a Glance

The listed 2027 programs can change as organisers finalise their schedules, so check the official event pages before travelling.

A Note About Australia Day

Australia Day is experienced in different ways across Melbourne and Australia. For some people it is a day to celebrate Australian life and community, while for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, 26 January is associated with invasion, dispossession and mourning. Events such as Share the Spirit provide opportunities to engage with First Nations culture and perspectives.