January 26 commemorates the 1788 First Fleet arrival, celebrated by most Australians but mourned by some Indigenous groups as Invasion Day amid a history of population decline from disease, violence, and displacement.
Cumberland City councillor Ahmed Ouf drew condemnation for social media videos claiming massacres and genocide after 1788, warning celebrations could lead to more violence; critics called for his deportation while polls show 76% support keeping the date.
Protests are planned in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, alongside counter-events affirming the tradition, as ABC satire and flag rumors add to the tensions ahead of barbecues and citizenship ceremonies.