Indigenous groups say the date is a sad reminder

Many Indigenous Australians regard January 26 as the date which marks the start of an Aboriginal genocide following the arrival of the First Fleet more than 200 years ago.

Australia Day protest in Redfern Source: AAP

Police and protesters have clashed at an Invasion Day march in Sydney.

The protests coincide with a debate over whether Australia's national day should be marked on another date that is less divisive.