Australian Prime Minister Albanese Salutes Greece’s ‘Oxi Day’ and Shared Heritage
On the 85th anniversary of Greece’s defiant rejection in 1940, Australia reaffirms strong bonds with the Greek community and historical alliance
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese issued a heartfelt message on October 28, 2025, marking the 85th anniversary of Oxi Day — the day Greece responded “Ο ΧΙ!” (“No!”) to fascist demands and defended its freedom.
In his tribute, Mr Albanese paid homage to the courage of the Greek people, acknowledging how their stand influenced the Allied efforts in World War II and reinforced the historic partnership between Australia and Greece.
Reflecting on the significance of the moment, the Prime Minister highlighted Australia’s recognition of the Greek people’s unyielding commitment to liberty.
He noted how the Greek-Australian community has become a vibrant thread in Australia’s social fabric, underscoring shared values of democracy, sacrifice and resilience.
“Today, on the 85th anniversary of Oxi Day, Australians join Greece in honouring a defining moment of courage and resilience,” the message stated.
Greece’s rejection of the Italian ultimatum on October 28, 1940 initiated the Greco-Italian War and marked one of the first victories for the Allies.
Historians regard it as a pivotal moment that delayed Axis advances and helped shape the wider course of the war.
The decision remains enshrined in Greek national identity, and communities around the world observe the day with parades and memorials.
In Australia, celebrations took place across states, including a formal ceremony in Western Australia attended by Greek and Australian dignitaries at King’s Park.
These events serve as a reminder of the enduring connections between the two nations and the shared commemoration of a bold stand for freedom.
Mr Albanese’s message resonated with the Greek-Australian diaspora and wider Australian society alike.
It reaffirmed that the legacy of Oxi Day transcends national boundaries — it is a testament to the power of collective resolve.
As Greece and Australia commemorate together, the message of unity and shared history remains ever-relevant in a world facing new challenges.
The Prime Minister concluded his tribute with a warm greeting to the Greek community in Australia and abroad: “Ζήτω η 28η Οκτωβρίου 1940!” — “Long live the 28th of October 1940!”.
In his tribute, Mr Albanese paid homage to the courage of the Greek people, acknowledging how their stand influenced the Allied efforts in World War II and reinforced the historic partnership between Australia and Greece.
Reflecting on the significance of the moment, the Prime Minister highlighted Australia’s recognition of the Greek people’s unyielding commitment to liberty.
He noted how the Greek-Australian community has become a vibrant thread in Australia’s social fabric, underscoring shared values of democracy, sacrifice and resilience.
“Today, on the 85th anniversary of Oxi Day, Australians join Greece in honouring a defining moment of courage and resilience,” the message stated.
Greece’s rejection of the Italian ultimatum on October 28, 1940 initiated the Greco-Italian War and marked one of the first victories for the Allies.
Historians regard it as a pivotal moment that delayed Axis advances and helped shape the wider course of the war.
The decision remains enshrined in Greek national identity, and communities around the world observe the day with parades and memorials.
In Australia, celebrations took place across states, including a formal ceremony in Western Australia attended by Greek and Australian dignitaries at King’s Park.
These events serve as a reminder of the enduring connections between the two nations and the shared commemoration of a bold stand for freedom.
Mr Albanese’s message resonated with the Greek-Australian diaspora and wider Australian society alike.
It reaffirmed that the legacy of Oxi Day transcends national boundaries — it is a testament to the power of collective resolve.
As Greece and Australia commemorate together, the message of unity and shared history remains ever-relevant in a world facing new challenges.
The Prime Minister concluded his tribute with a warm greeting to the Greek community in Australia and abroad: “Ζήτω η 28η Οκτωβρίου 1940!” — “Long live the 28th of October 1940!”.
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