The NSW Minister for Multiculturalism, John Ajaka, said: "It's a time for everyone to come together and celebrate which make up our values, our common goals, and our shared commitment for a free and tolerant society."

The 2017 Australia Day program includes activities across the state and around Sydney as an "open day for everyone to enjoy", said Mr Ajaka.

This program includes the WugulOra Indigenous Morning Ceremony at Barangaroo, a Children's Festival at Darling Harbour, and the Australia Day Regatta.

At night, "the sky will light up with a [fireworks] display at Darling Harbour for the whole family to enjoy", said Mr Ajaka.

Australia Day Ambassador Peter Greste said that it is a time for all Australians to reflect on "Aussie values" and "all those things that make us Australian".

"We understand what Aussie values mean when we talk about words like 'egalitarianism' and 'a fair go for all'," said Mr Greste. "Mateship is one of those words we all tend to reach for when we're trying to describe what it is to be Australian."

Television personalities Grant Denyer and Kerri-Anne Kennerley will co-host Australia Day 2017 - Live at the Opera House  with Australian musicians, including Dami Im, Guy Sebastian, Tina Arena, and The Wiggles, among others.

Mr Denyer said that this event could be the start of another Australia Day tradition.

"Like Christmas has the carols, like New Year's Eve has the fireworks, we now have this Australia Day live concert to bookend what is already a big day for many Australians right around the country," he said.

Australia Day Council of NSW Chairman Angelo Frangopoulos said Australia Day is an "opportunity to take time out, celebrate our passion for Australia and highlight how fortunate we are to live in this beautiful country of ours".

Australia Day Creative Director John Foreman promises that the event will have "great things happening all around the city".