For some it’s a chance to catch up with friends and family; to thousands of others who are becoming Australian citizens today the day undoubtedly takes on a more serious, yet joyous tone.

For others, it’s the perfect time to debate big ideas: Opposition Leader Bill Shorten yesterday revived the republic issue. And for others it’s just a longed-for sleep-in (which could arguably be as Aussie as it gets).

Today is so many different things for different people, and perhaps that’s best represented by the huge range of people celebrated with national recognition of their achievements. An Albury choir leader; a former Victorian government official; a past Wangaratta mayor; a Deniliquin tourism guru; and a Byawatha environmental engineer to name a few.

All too often Australia Day gets reduced to stereotypes of what it means to be “truly Australian” — neat ideas wrapped up in an Australian flag.

But there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

So play cricket, have a barbie, debate the big ideas, or celebrate your culture — do it your way. That freedom might well be the best part of being Aussie.