Federal Member for Fremantle Josh Wilson.
Camera IconFederal Member for Fremantle Josh Wilson. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Federal member for Fremantle backs City’s Australia Day stance

Jessica NicoFremantle Gazette

FREMANTLE MHR Josh Wilson has thrown his support behind the City of Fremantle’s decision to move Australia Day events to January 28.

On Friday, Tangney MHR Ben Morton announced he had sent a letter to the Assistant Minister for Immigration and Boarder Protection Alex Hawke with his concerns about the City cancelling its Australia Day celebrations and moving the citizenship ceremony to January 28.

However, Mr Wilson, a former Fremantle councillor, said Australians were capable of having “a mature and reasonable debate that reflects a diversity of views” and that the City was within its rights to try a more inclusive event.

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“The only people who are trying to politicise this issue and make mileage out it, which I think is sad, are Ben Morton and Alex Hawke,” he said.

“The Australia Day celebrations in Fremantle have always been thoughtful and respectful, and have reflected on our Indigenous heritage, but it’s entirely legitimate for Fremantle council to explore a more inclusive event, and for the community to respond to that opportunity.”