Australia Day 2025: A Message from Buddhacare

Today, on Australia Day 2025, we gather to reflect on our shared journey as a nation. Australia is a tapestry of diverse cultures, histories, and aspirations. It is a country that celebrates its indigenous heritage, its migrant contributions, and its commitment to democracy and freedom. Yet, as we celebrate, we must also take a moment to pause and consider the deeper meaning of this day through the lens of the Buddha’s teachings.

A Day of Reflection and Connection

Australia Day often invites mixed emotions. For many, it is a time to come together with family and friends, to enjoy the natural beauty of our land, and to celebrate our achievements as a nation. For others, it is a day of mourning and reflection on the historical injustices experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Both perspectives are valid, and they remind us of the importance of compassion and understanding in building a more inclusive society.

In the teachings of the Buddha, we are encouraged to see beyond dualities. It is not about right or wrong, celebration or mourning, but rather about recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings. Australia’s story is complex, and it is through embracing this complexity that we can truly honour the spirit of the day.

The Individual as the Starting Point for Peace

As we look around the world, we see conflicts that tear apart nations and devastate lives. War and violence are not distant concepts; they are realities that affect millions. In this context, the Buddha’s teachings offer a profound reminder: the path to peace begins with the individual.

When the Buddha taught about the roots of suffering, he identified greed, hatred, and delusion as the primary causes. These roots are not only the seeds of personal dissatisfaction but also the drivers of large-scale conflict. If we wish to contribute to a more peaceful world, we must first cultivate peace within ourselves. This is the essence of the Buddhist path and a principle that Buddhacare holds at its core.

Cultivating Inner Peace

Inner peace is not a passive state; it requires active engagement with our thoughts, emotions, and actions. Through practices such as mindfulness and meditation, we can develop greater awareness of our inner world. This awareness allows us to recognize when we are caught in cycles of anger, fear, or attachment and to gently redirect ourselves toward states of equanimity and compassion.

Australia Day provides an opportunity to reflect on how we, as individuals, can embody these qualities. Can we approach our interactions with others with greater kindness? Can we listen more deeply and respond with understanding? Can we contribute to our communities in ways that foster harmony and cooperation? These are the questions that can guide our celebrations today.

Building a Community of Belonging

One of the key principles of Buddhacare is the importance of belonging. Human beings are social creatures, and our well-being is deeply tied to our sense of connection with others. Yet, in modern society, many people feel isolated and disconnected. This sense of alienation can lead to a fixation on the self and exacerbate divisions within communities.

The Buddha’s teaching of anatta, or not-self, offers a way to transcend this isolation. By realizing that our sense of self is not fixed but fluid and interdependent, we can begin to see others not as separate from us but as part of the same human family. This realization can inspire us to act with greater generosity and empathy, creating a society where everyone feels valued and included.

Acknowledging the Past, Shaping the Future

Australia’s history is marked by both triumphs and tragedies. The colonization of this land brought profound changes to its indigenous peoples, whose cultures and traditions date back tens of thousands of years. As we celebrate Australia Day, it is vital to acknowledge this history with honesty and humility.

Reconciliation is not just a political process; it is a spiritual one. It requires us to confront the truths of the past and to commit to actions that promote healing and justice. From a Buddhist perspective, this process is deeply aligned with the practice of right speech and right action. By engaging in meaningful dialogue and supporting initiatives that uplift marginalized communities, we can contribute to a more equitable and compassionate Australia.

Gratitude for Our Shared Home

Australia is a land of extraordinary beauty and diversity. From the ancient rainforests of Queensland to the rugged outback, from the vibrant cities to the serene beaches, this country offers a wealth of natural and cultural treasures. On Australia Day, we are reminded to cultivate gratitude for the blessings of this land.

Gratitude is a cornerstone of Buddhist practice. It helps us to shift our focus from what is lacking to what is abundant. When we approach life with gratitude, we become more mindful of our responsibilities as stewards of the earth. This includes taking action to protect the environment and ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same blessings we do today.

Embracing Diversity

Australia’s strength lies in its diversity. People from all over the world have come to this land, bringing with them unique traditions, languages, and perspectives. This diversity enriches our society and provides countless opportunities for learning and growth.

In Buddhism, the concept of interdependence teaches us that our differences are not obstacles but sources of strength. Just as a garden is more beautiful when it contains a variety of flowers, a society flourishes when it embraces the contributions of all its members. On this Australia Day, let us celebrate our differences and recognize that they make us stronger as a nation.

The Role of Buddhacare

At Buddhacare, we are committed to creating spaces where people can explore the teachings of the Buddha in a way that is relevant to modern life. We believe that these teachings have the power to address not only individual suffering but also societal challenges. By fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging compassionate action, we aim to contribute to a more harmonious and equitable world.

Australia Day is a reminder of the importance of this work. It is an opportunity to recommit ourselves to the values of kindness, wisdom, and mindfulness. It is a chance to reflect on how we can live in alignment with these principles and inspire others to do the same.

A Call to Action

As we celebrate Australia Day 2025, let us remember that the true essence of this day is not found in grand gestures but in the small, meaningful actions we take to create a better world. Whether it is extending a hand to someone in need, speaking up for justice, or simply taking a moment to breathe and centre ourselves, each act of kindness contributes to the collective good.

The Buddha taught that peace begins within. On this Australia Day, may we each find the courage to cultivate that peace in our own hearts and to share it with others. Together, we can build a nation that is not only prosperous but also compassionate, not only diverse but also united, not only proud but also humble.

Happy Australia Day to all. May this day inspire us to walk the path of peace, wisdom, and love.

The ongoing devastating wars, in whatever name being propagated by both sides and their allies, are shattering and destroying countless living beings and their homes. Kidnapping and killing are, whatever excuse they take, criminal acts, which should be condemned. Using innocent people as human shields and killing the enemies regardless of these innocent people are inhuman military operations, which are not acceptable by this civilized world community. These complicated conflicts with the increasing intervention and involvement of the superpower nations and regional countries may have the potential risks of escalating to more serious geopolitical conflicts, possibly igniting a world conflict and a Third World War. On behalf of BuddhaCare and as a war veteran, who witnessed the inhuman mass killing in several battlefields 50 years ago, I fully understand and share the utmost sufferings and losses of the war victims over there.

May I have a few minutes to share with you my reflections on Australia Day

Role of Religion

Spiritual and religious leaders are expected to no longer remain silent. Leaving the life of humanity and living beings in general in the hands of the political leaders, especially those who just want to harness more power and benefit regardless of others' suffering and well-being, is not a reasonable solution. There is an urgent need for the world's spiritual leaders to stand up in an united and coordinated voice to ensure that the political leaders follow the right path, and that our religious traditions serve as a genuine and dynamic source of solutions, rather than as problems, because spiritual leaders have a mandate, too, to work for and take care of the well-being and happiness, both material and spiritual, of living beings.

The suggested fundamental grounds, on which the spiritual leaders themselves can base themselves to engage and respond to the world's accelerating violence and conflicts, are:

1. Rules-based international order is most likely regarded so far as a feasible, appropriate and reasonable path. The U.N. charter, procedures and practices, regional and international agreements or conventions, and the international law and precedents endorsed by the majority of nations, though not perfect, need to be observed and put in practice in an effective way;

2. Shared international civilizational values;

3. The world's common moral and spiritual values, originating from the prominent religions and cultures, concerned

To what extent can the spiritual authorities engage?

1. When and where the preservation and protection of living beings' lives is most needed;

2. Serious humanitarian crises;

3. The requests of the United Nations and of the governments and lay authorities concerned;

4. Avoiding interference with the internal governance and administration of the lay authorities;

5. The needs of sovereignty, self-determination and human dignity to be fully respected;

6. Working with strong commitment and dedication for the best interest of all living beings, not for that of particular authorities

Territorial conflicts and co-existence in peace and harmony

The borders and territories of many nations have changed over the past centuries, due to various reasons that originated from natural and human factors. A thousand years ago, the Ottoman Empire and the Roman Empire occupied huge territories in Europe.  More than three centuries ago, the Aborigines were the original custodians of the land they called Australia, and the country “United States of America” did not appear on the world map. The South China sea, though carrying the wording ‘China’, is not internationally accepted under the UNCLOS as China’s territory.

Scientists confirmed that the average human body contains approximately 37.2 trillion cells that are born, function, die and become reborn from time to time. Authorities and the peoples and the places, they live and work, have changed and continue to change. Acknowledging and accepting this natural law of impermanence would help eliminate peoples’ greed and self- interest, and gradually open their hearts and minds to compassion, tolerance and sharing with others for better co-existence and co-development in peace and prosperity.  Harmony can be achieved, if people engage with one another and, together create a strong community and educate themselves about those around them, founded upon mutual understanding, respect and support.

In Albania, the predominant religions are Islam and Christianity, with Muslims making up more than half the population. Churches and mosques often occupy the same streets, and interfaith marriages are widely accepted. In a 2014 visit, Pope Francis praised Albania for its notable religious tolerance and peaceful co-existence. 

Any just solution to the territorial conflicts is expected to be for the best interests of people currently residing in the conflicting territories, not for the relevant political authorities and superpower-nations. If this earth is regarded as a sacred land gifted from God, it should not be for the sole ownership of any authority or institution, but for every living resident to share and enjoy a happy co-existence. Would such a world of ‘great unity’ be of greater interest and significance to this present generation and the generations to come?

 Sustainable Peace

Peace, Peace, Peace … has been talked about so often and so much, particularly after World War 2. Calling for peace is great! But working effectively for Peace is greater and more significant. May I ask you a question: If I call for Peace and encourage people to talk about and work for peace, but my family has regular domestic violence, aggressive behavior, selfishness and hatred are regularly seen in my daily life, can you trust me? If we do not have peace in mind – namely Inner Peace – how can we have peace in our family, our community, our country and in the world? Peace should start from within. Outer Peace without inner Peace is not a sustainable Peace. Either chanting, praying or meditation on a daily basis is believed to be a good religious practice to explore, develop and foster the ‘Inner Peace’ in each and every human being. Peace education provided by the government and religious authorities plays an important role in our meaningful, long journey towards world peace.

May the Australian government and people unite in love, compassion and wisdom to abolish the primordial cycle of greed, hatred, tyranny and violence that plagues humanity.

May the effective collective efforts made by all of us lead and illuminate the path to sustainable peace, stability and well-being of all.

Have a happy, enjoyable and safe Australia Day with your loved ones

Thank you for your kind attention.

Henry DANG, D.Litt., S.D, J.P

President of BuddhaCare

Chairman, Standing Committee on Unity and Solidarity, World Fellowship of Buddhists

Global Peace Ambassador (2016)

Peace Message from Kai Hillam, BuddhaCare Committee, President of Asian Australian Business Council

Peace Message from Vince Cavuoto, Co-founder and Vice President of BuddhaCare

As a co-founder and vice-president of BuddhaCare, I am happy to share with you today, in this Australia Day, some reflections not only on the values that unite us as a nation but also some reflections on the profound teachings of Buddhism that resonate with the human experience.

As we gather to celebrate this Day, we can reflect upon the remarkable journey our nation has undertaken since its inception. From its humble beginnings as a penal colony, Australia has evolved into a modern and vibrant nation, enriched by the diverse tapestry of cultures that now call this land home. It is essential, however, to acknowledge that not all Australians share the same sentiments about the date we commemorate. For our Indigenous brothers and sisters, this day marks the arrival of the First Fleet and is a painful reminder of invasion, dispossession and erosion of their cultural heritage. It is a stark reminder that our celebration is incomplete without acknowledging and rectifying the injustices of the past.

As we celebrate Australia Day, we need to reflect, not just on the historical events that shaped our nation, but also on the ongoing struggles and challenges we face today. As we enjoy our festivities, we cannot ignore the immeasurable loss of life, enormous suffering and destruction caused by wars that ravage parts of our world. It points to the reality that peace, both within our borders and beyond, is a fragile and precious gift that we cannot take for granted and that requires our collective commitment, keeping in mind that the starting point remains within each of us. 

It is in this spirit that I want to draw your attention to the unique perspective that Buddhism brings to the human condition. The Buddhist path is a personal journey of spiritual transformation, advocating the development of qualities such as loving kindness, compassion, and mindfulness. However the development of these qualities is not an end in itself but only a stepping stone to realise wisdom.

 Buddhism teaches us that at the core of each of us, there exists a void, a fear of not being real, at times expressed as a sense of lack. This void often compels individuals to seek external validation in the world, and manifests itself as a desire to be someone in life, often leading to a pursuit of material wealth and power. Tragically, in some extreme cases, this need for external validation leads some people to commit crimes purely out of the desire to see their names published in the newspapers.

What Buddhism emphasizes is the need to fill this void internally, through the cultivation of positive qualities of mind and heart. It is a stark contrast to the norms of our ordinary culture that often prioritise individual success over collective well-being. In a world marred by conflict and violence, Buddhism provides a path that encourages us to look within, fostering qualities that are not normally encouraged by mainstream society; qualities like loving kindness, generosity, and compassion.

As we delve into the teachings of Buddhism, we find that the path is inherently individualistic. It begins with the development of mindsets that challenge the status quo, that encourages us to see beyond the divisions created by nationality, race, religion and politics. While Buddhism may not be able to offer a collective solution to the world's problems, it does point to a fundamental truth: sustainable peace in society begins with the creation of peace within each individual. The Buddhist path is an individual journey not a collective undertaking.

Buddhacare, as an organization dedicated to spreading Buddhist values, is committed to helping interested individuals understand that the pursuit of a peaceful society necessitates creating a sustainable peace within ourselves. By fostering an environment where individuals are mindful, compassionate, and understanding, we can contribute to the collective well-being of our society.

The insights that the teachings of Buddhism bring into the human condition, have also implications for the mental health of our society in general. In a world where loss of meaning is prevalent, the resulting boredom is filled by a continuous search for new excitement that provides only temporary stimulation but no lasting satisfaction. If you need any proof for what I am saying all you have to do is to look at what occupies most people’s minds on social media.

Buddhacare's mission aligns with this imperative, guiding individuals on a path towards self-discovery, lasting peace and contentment and, by extension, the betterment of the world we collectively inhabit including the mental health of the people.

As we celebrate Australia Day, let us not only commemorate our nation's history but also reflect on the responsibilities we bear as individuals to contribute to a world where peace is not just a distant dream but a tangible reality. In the spirit of Australia's multicultural identity, let’s embrace diversity and work together to build a nation that truly embodies the values of compassion, understanding, and unity.

Thank you, and Happy Australia Day!

Vince Cavuoto, Co-founder and Vice President of BuddhaCare