Australian of the Year Finalist, football superstar Adam Goodes, sees Australia Day as a survival story and a chance to celebrate his Aboriginal culture.

Goodes joined other state and territory finalists at a special lunch in Canberra on Saturday ahead of this evening's announcement of the winners.

Adam Goodes Credit:Brendan Esposito

People should enjoy celebrating what it means to be Australian but also show empathy towards indigenous people who may find the day painful, Goodes said.

"There is a bit of heartache and sorrow out there," the dual Brownlow medallist told reporters in Canberra.