Recognising NAIDOC Week in 2025

NAIDOC Week 2025 begins on Sunday, July 6, inviting all Australians to come together to celebrate and recognise the rich history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This special week offers a unique opportunity to learn about First Nations cultures and histories and to join in honoring the oldest continuous living cultures on earth.

Marking 50 years of NAIDOC, this milestone celebrates a journey rooted in Indigenous self-determination and resilience. What started as a movement for recognition and rights, led by Indigenous communities envisioning justice and equality, has blossomed into a nationwide celebration. NAIDOC Week stands as a powerful testament to the enduring strength and spirit of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Throughout the week, Australians come together to reinforce a shared vision for the country where Indigenous voices not only are heard but lead the way. Every story shared, every act of resilience remembered, and every cultural practice celebrated honors a legacy that reaches deep into the past and stretches toward a promising future.

This NAIDOC Week, we celebrate more than just a milestone – we celebrate a vibrant, evolving movement driven by the unwavering strength of Indigenous communities, and the enduring legacies being passed on to the next generation. Together, we walk forward, honoring where Indigenous peoples have come from and looking boldly to the future.

Get Involved

Join NAIDOC Week celebrations across Australia with many local and community-driven events happening throughout the whole week. Here are some highlighted events from each state to inspire your participation:

• Victoria (VIC):
  • Melbourne NAIDOC Festival (July 6): A vibrant day of music, dance, storytelling, and art celebrating First Nations culture in the heart of Melbourne.
  • Bendigo NAIDOC Community Gathering (July 7): A family-friendly event featuring workshops, cultural performances, and traditional food.
• South Australia (SA):
  • Adelaide NAIDOC Art Exhibition (July 6-12): Showcasing works from local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, celebrating heritage and creativity.
  • Port Augusta NAIDOC Family Day (July 8): Activities for kids and elders alike, including storytelling, craft, and cultural games.
• Queensland (QLD):
  • Brisbane NAIDOC March and Rally (July 6): A powerful demonstration of pride and self-determination, followed by community celebrations.
  • Cairns Cultural Workshops (July 9): Interactive sessions on traditional dance, language, and fire burning practices.
• New South Wales (NSW):
  • Sydney NAIDOC Week Opening Ceremony (July 6): Featuring speeches from elders, youth performances, and a welcome to country.
  • Newcastle NAIDOC Family Fun Day (July 10): Free activities for kids, including storytelling, music, and arts workshops.

For an extensive list of events taking place near you, visit the NAIDOC Week website’s ‘What’s On’ page and find ways to join in the celebrations, learn more about First Nations cultures, and show your respect and support.

Let’s unite this NAIDOC Week to celebrate culture, heritage, and community — proud and united for a bright future.