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NAIDOC Week 5-12 July 2026


National NAIDOC Week is celebrated across Australia in the first week of July each year to honour and recognise the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This week serves as an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories, while participating in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth.

 

The campaign aims to raise awareness of the health disparities faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, addressing issues such as access to healthcare, mental health, and chronic diseases. By engaging in these celebrations, participants can support local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and promote a deeper understanding of their cultures.

 

How National NAIDOC Week Works

 

National NAIDOC Week features a variety of activities designed to engage communities and celebrate Indigenous cultures. Events include cultural workshops, art exhibitions, community festivals, and the prestigious National NAIDOC Awards Ceremony, which showcases the excellence of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals.

 

Each year, a different focus city hosts the awards, highlighting remarkable achievements from various communities. Additional activities, such as the National NAIDOC Poster Competition, encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists to express their creativity and cultural significance through art that reflects the year’s theme.

 

Ways to Get Involved

 

You can get involved in National NAIDOC Week in several impactful ways:

  • Attend Local Events: Discover community celebrations, art exhibitions, and cultural workshops near you using the official NAIDOC Event Listing.
  • Nominate for the National NAIDOC Awards: Recognise someone who has excelled in their field by nominating them for one of the award categories. Nominations for the 2026 awards are now open.
  • Participate in the National NAIDOC Poster Competition: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists aged 18 and over can submit their artwork reflecting the theme "50 Years of Deadly."
  • Apply for NAIDOC Local Grants: The Australian Government supports local communities through funding to assist organisations in hosting their own NAIDOC events. The grants for 2026 are now open.

 

Join in celebrating National NAIDOC Week and making a difference! Your participation is essential in recognising the contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and promoting cultural understanding.

 

For more information on events, nominations, and resources, visit the official NAIDOC website. Together, let's honour the past, celebrate the present, and pave the way for a brighter future for all First Nations peoples!