COLOMBO : The Australian High Commission to Sri Lanka celebrated Australia Day 2026 with a reception on 23 January, hosted by Australian High Commissioner His Excellency Matthew Duckworth.
The event was graced by Hon. (Dr) Susil Ranasinghe, Minister of Housing, Construction and Water Supply, as Chief Guest, along with distinguished representatives from government, civil society, the Sri Lankan and Australian business community, and the diplomatic corps.
Australia Day is an opportunity to reflect, respect and celebrate. We reflect on what it means to be Australian, celebrate contemporary Australia, and acknowledge the 65,000 year heritage of our land. This year’s event showcased Australia’s journey of culture, innovation and connection from the world’s oldest continuous culture to a modern global nation.
The event celebrated Australia’s enduring friendship with Sri Lanka as Indian ocean neighbors. It highlighted the many connections that bridge this ocean, including our personal ties, education, partnerships in trade and development, and shared mission to secure a safe and prosperous region for all our people.
High Commissioner Duckworth said “Australia Day is a moment for reflection as well as celebration. It reminds us of the diversity of our own nation, and of the values we share with partners like Sri Lanka: respect, resilience, and a commitment to a peaceful and inclusive future. Our countries are connected not only by history and geography, but by people, families, and communities who strengthen our relationship every day. In 2026, we look forward to expanding our cooperation and building an Indo-Pacific region where all can thrive.”
The event included top quality Australian lamb, wine and cheese distributed by Sri Lankan
January 26, 2026
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