Australia Day is a time to reflect on what makes Australia such a great country — the people, land, diversity and the freedom we enjoy.
This year, the City of Perth will host events right across the long weekend, allowing people to enjoy a full array of activities.
Chair Commissioner Eric Lumsden said the City of Perth celebrates diversity and welcomes all cultures and abilities as part of our vibrant community.
"From those who have arrived recently, to those whose culture dates back thousands of years, we encourage acceptance, inclusion and respect, regardless of identity or background," Commissioner Lumsden said.
"Across the Australia Day long weekend, the City of Perth will play host to a number of cultural events from 25 to 28 January, bringing together people from all backgrounds and celebrating as a collective what it means to be Australian."
Exciting events such as the City of Perth Australia Day Skyworks, the Birak Concert, Twilight Hawkers Market, FRINGE WORLD, the City of Perth Festival of Sail, Australiana Film Nights and Aussie Play Day will take over the city.
"Recognising our history, diversity, culture and country, we are excited to bring the community together across the long weekend," Commissioner Lumsden said.
"The City of Perth continues to maintain strong ties with the Aboriginal community, liaising closely with Aboriginal leaders to incorporate culturally sensitive and appropriate events into Australia Day activities.
"As part of the weekend, the City of Perth will deliver the Birak Concert and spectacular Australia Day Skyworks on 26 January.
"Now in its 35th year, and bringing together more than 300,000 people, this well-loved tradition is the largest community event run by the City."
As the night closes in, visitors are encouraged to secure a spot in Langley Park, South Perth or Kings Park to get the best view of the spectacular fireworks display at 8pm.
For the third year in a row, Disability in the Arts Disadvantage in the Arts (DADAA) will deliver an audio-described service of the show for people who are blind or vision-impaired. Audio description will be provided live, as the action happens.
Providing a comfortable space for people with disability including children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder and their families, the audio described area will be situated on the foreshore opposite Langley Park.
For the first time, the City of Perth will also offer two quiet zones in Langley Park for families with children with autism needing respite. Located at the east end of Langley Park and on Riverside Drive, these quiet zones are enclosed marquees with dim lighting, beanbags, arts activities and iPads.
Additionally, the Birak Concert in the Supreme Court Gardens will also have a new accessible viewing zone and will be AUSLAN interpreted.
The City of Perth Australia Day Skyworks is proudly delivered with the support of mix94.5, Channel 9 and Lotterywest.
