Fremantle Dockers AFLW coach Trent Cooper has made a statement in support of changing the date of Australia Day from January 26.

Cooper took to Twitter to share his thoughts on the divisive topic, while Fremantle also took to social media to reveal their stance on the issue.

“I used to love Jan 26 and what it represented to me, the coming together of our nation,” Cooper said on Twitter.

“It wasn’t until I was better educated about what it meant to our First Nations people that I understood why we have to change the date.

“The more people that are educated, the closer we are to moving to a date where we can ALL celebrate together.

“The big change will come about not by those most affected, but by those least affected understanding and then helping to educate others.”

The message was supported by former Hockeyroo and Collingwood AFLW player Georgie Parker, as well as sports broadcaster Neroli Meadows.

It was also endorsed by Fremantle AFL coach Justin Longmuir, who “liked” the post.

Cooper’s post follows the lead of AFL clubs around the country, who have made their thoughts on January 26 celebrations clear through social media posts which don’t mention the phrase Australia Day.

Fremantle took to social media with a post, captioned “#KalyakoorlWalyalup”, a motto previously used on their social media during Sir Doug Nicholls Round. The club in 2019 explained “it’s our Freo slogan, the Noongar way.”

Instead the statements call for inclusion, education and support for all peoples.