Alice Springs Mayor Asta Hill has announced she will not preside over the town's Australia Day citizenship ceremony on January 26.
Mayor Hill stated her decision is a personal one, grounded in her values, and she does not wish to play a formal role on a day she believes causes harm to people in the community, especially First Nations individuals. She characterized January 26 as a day of mourning and grief for many.
Independent MP Robyn Lambley criticized the mayor's decision, describing it as "disgraceful." Lambley stated that the mayor had misjudged public sentiment and noted the traditional role of the mayor in such ceremonies. She argued the decision would offend many residents and referenced research by the Australian Institute of Public Affairs, a conservative think tank, indicating 76 percent of Australians support Australia Day on January 26. Lambley also questioned if voters were aware of Hill's position before the election.
Mayor Hill rejected the assertion that her stance would be divisive, stating that acting consistently with her values encourages respectful conversation about the issue and acknowledges a diversity of opinion. She disputed claims of a lack of pre-election transparency, affirming she had clearly outlined her views on Australia Day during a pre-election ABC panel discussion.
The Alice Springs Town Council has confirmed that the Australia Day citizenship ceremony will proceed as planned, with Deputy Mayor Allison Bitar officiating.