Dutton states veterans oppose Welcome to Country on Anzac Day

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has stated that Welcome to Country ceremonies should not be part of Anzac Day dawn services, arguing that most veterans prefer the focus to remain on honoring those who served. Dutton emphasized that while the final decision rests with event organizers, he believes such ceremonies are 'overdone' and potentially divisive when included at frequent public events. His comments follow the disruption of a Welcome to Country ceremony by far-right agitators at an Anzac Day service, an incident condemned by both Dutton and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Albanese and other Labor leaders defended Welcome to Country as a sign of respect and maintained that its inclusion should be at the discretion of organizers. Dutton also criticized practices like Qantas’ regular acknowledgments of country, describing them as excessive. The debate has highlighted differing views on national unity, respect for Indigenous culture, and the appropriate context for such ceremonies.