<
https://www.theguardian.com/music/2026/jan/22/land-down-under-music-march-for-australia-rallies>
"Former Men at Work frontman Colin Hay has disavowed the use of the band’s 80s
anthem
Down Under by Australian anti-immigration protesters, saying the song
“does not belong to those who attempt to sow xenophobia”.
In a post to his Facebook and Instagram accounts, the singer-songwriter singled
out anti-immigration group March for Australia, who have organised marches
around the country on 26 January under the slogan “Our national identity will
not be erased”.
The singer, who was born in Scotland and emigrated to Australia with his family
as a teen, signed his message “Colin Hay (immigrant)”.
“I most strenuously disapprove of any unauthorized, unlicensed use of
Down
Under, for any ‘March For Australia’ events,” Hay wrote.
“
Down Under, a song I co-wrote, does not belong to those who attempt to sow
xenophobia within the fabric of our great land, our great people.
Down Under
is ultimately a song of celebration. It’s for pluralism and inclusion; unity,
not division.
“Go write your own song, leave mine alone.”"
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
