Peter Dutton calls on High Commissioner Stephen Smith to return to Australia after snubbing National Day celebrations for the second year in a row

Australia’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Stephen Smith, has come under fire from Opposition Leader Peter Dutton for refusing to participate in Australia Day celebrations in London on January 26 for the second consecutive year.

Smith, who was appointed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in 2023, has announced he will host limited events leading up to Australia Day but will not hold celebrations on the day itself. The High Commissioner’s decision to keep Australia House on the Strand closed on January 26 has raised concerns, especially after he previously moved the annual Australia Day gala dinner away from the national holiday due to “sensitivities” surrounding the date.

Dutton, outraged by the move, stated that Smith should “get on the next plane home” if he was “ashamed” of Australia’s national day. He also emphasised that the Prime Minister must intervene to address the issue. “What other developed country refuses to acknowledge its national day?” Dutton remarked.

In response to the backlash, Smith clarified that he would attend the Britain-Australia Society gala dinner on January 25, where he would deliver a personal message from the Prime Minister. Despite this, Smith’s refusal to mark the holiday itself continues to spark debate, especially given the cancellation of the gala at the Australian High Commission in 2024.

While Smith’s spokesperson cited the fact that January 26 falls on a Sunday this year, making it a quieter day in London, his handling of Australia Day has raised questions about his commitment to the country’s traditions. The controversy continues to unfold as public figures weigh in on the issue.