Faced with a fairly broad option for a school creative writing task recently on “Australian Identity”, my eldest daughter (who is 16 years of age) thought firstly of the place of indigenous people in society with specific reference to their place in Australian football.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The examples for this examination are fairly obvious: former St. Kilda player Nicky Winmar raising his shirt to proudly expose his dark skin and Adam Goodes with his spear throwing war dance are but two from a long list. I was very happy indeed that this concept of identity was forefront in the consciousness of a 16 year old.
What else goes to Australian identity in the year 2018?
The most recently available census figures indicate that half of Australia’s population is now either born overseas or had parents who were born overseas. This must impact on Australian identity and mould it in a multitude of ways. The moulding is evident in all facets of life including religion, politics, communications, customs and of course food. Our identity is a moving feast that can only continue to change and probably with an ever increasing pace. Nevertheless, some of the values and essence of identity must remain the same or there is no real identity.
With this in mind, it is Anzac Day next week. Anzac Day must surely be the greatest symbol of Australian identity. Whilst Australia federated in 1901, it is argued that the national identity was forged during the First World War and specifically at the ill – fated Gallipoli campaign. Whilst it is essentially a day of mourning, it is also a day for considering who and why we are, as we are. This reflection must now include consideration of the changing notion of Australian identity. I encourage reflection next week at the day commemorating great Australian sacrifice and note details on the local events can be found at www.hilltopsregion.com.au -
Hilltops Councillor Tony Wallace
