Melbourne has revived its traditional nativity scene, restoring what critics labelled a woke approach to Christmas celebrations.
The decision has been welcomed by church leaders, councillors, and residents, who say it brings a sense of common sense back to the city’s festive programme.
Roshena Campbell, Deputy Lord Mayor who pushed for its return shared that she was delighted to revive one of Melbourne’s most cherished Christmas traditions.
She added that the city was proud to be a Christmas capital — from the Myer Christmas windows to city-wide light displays — and that the nativity scene would once again play its important role.
The nativity scene — portraying the infant Jesus in the manger alongside Mary, Joseph, the Three Wise Men, and animals — was installed at Federation Square on December 7. Its return forms part of an expanded festive programme, including additional decorations and weekly Christmas carol services at City Square, which reopens today in conjunction with the launch of the new Metro Tunnel.
The nativity scene was quietly removed from Christmas celebrations several years ago, sparking accusations that the council leadership viewed it as insufficiently inclusive of people from other faiths. A senior source at Town Hall said the council was now “de-woking” under Campbell’s deputy leadership. The source said that at one point, they were so woke that even baby Jesus could not be mentioned during Christmas — a celebration of the birth of Christ.
Peter Comensoli, Archbishop of Melbourne, said he was “thrilled” by the decision, noting that nativity scenes have been at the heart of Christian celebrations for centuries. He noted that, the image of Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus speaks of hope, joy, and peace — a message that is urgently needed in today’s world. The humility surrounding Jesus’ birth also reminds us of the needs of those living on the margins.