Sussan Ley compares First Fleet to Musk's Mars mission in Australia Day speech

In a recent Australia Day speech, Deputy Opposition Leader Sussan Ley controversially compared the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788 to Elon Musk's SpaceX ambitions for Mars colonization, suggesting that British settlers came to establish a new society rather than to destroy or pillage. Ley characterized the settlement as a 'daring experiment' and expressed pride in Australia's history, despite acknowledging its imperfection. She criticized Invasion Day protests, labeling activists as 'mobs' who hinder national unity, and stressed the importance of celebrating January 26 as a foundational date for modern Australia. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has echoed these sentiments, vowing to restore pride in Australia Day amidst ongoing debates about its significance. Ley's remarks have sparked significant backlash and debate regarding the historical interpretation of colonization in Australia. The juxtaposition of colonial history with contemporary space exploration has drawn both criticism and intrigue from the public and commentators alike.