Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders’ history in Australia is long and rich, making it the focal point for several celebrations throughout the year, including National Reconciliation Week. National Reconciliation Week runs from 27 May to 3 June. During this time, people around Australia will come together to learn about the nation’s shared histories, cultures and achievements. Here’s what you need to know about National Reconciliation Week 2024 and how you can get involved.
What is National Reconciliation Week?
National Reconciliation Week is a time of commemoration, recognition and respect for Australia’s First Nations people. The start and end dates (27 May and 3 June, respectively) hold great significance in history.
On 27 May 1967, Australia’s most successful referendum was held, which saw over 90 per cent of Australians vote in favour of recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Census.
On 3 June 1992, the Australian High Court established the Mabo decision, one of the most well-known decisions in Australia’s history. It started with Eddie Mabo, an Indigenous Australian man who challenged the ‘terra nullius’ legal standing, which stated that Australia’s lands belong to no one. Instead, the Mabo decision rightfully acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of lands.
Read more: Five Things You Can do Right Now to Support and Celebrate First Nations Cultures
The theme of National Reconciliation Week 2024 is “Now More Than Ever” – a reminder to all of us that no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will —and must —continue.
National Reconciliation Week 2024: How You Can Get Involved
Because this week-long celebration is recognised across the country, you should have no trouble finding events and activities in your local area. You can head to the full calendar of events here and search by state to find the ones that suit your schedule. To get you started, these are some National Reconciliation Week activities and events in each state and territory:
ACT
The ACT is home to a variety of reconciliation events, including Reconciliation Day at Commonwealth Park, which is a public holiday in the territory falling on Monday 27 May 2024.
And, from 27-29 May, the facade of the Australian Parliament House will be illuminated in moving shapes and colours depicting ancient Australian landscapes, inspired by the artwork of acclaimed artist Keturah Zimran OAM.
You can check out more Reconciliation Week events in the ACT here.
NSW
No matter where you are in NSW, you’re sure to find some reconciliation activities nearby. From theatre performances to storytelling to memorials, there are many interactive and interesting ways to learn about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders’ history.
You can check out the Reconciliation NSW events calendar for more inspiration.
NT
If you’re in Darwin, be sure to head to the Jabiru Library on 27 May 2024 for a free special screening of SBS documentary, Occupation | Native. On 28 May, the Jabiru Library is also hosting a story time, with Nana Marcia reading ‘Looking After Country With Fire’. See more Reconciliation Week events in the Northern Territory, here.
Queensland
Several events will be held over the course of Reconciliation Week across Queensland, including weaving tutorials and Trivia at the University of Queensland, and choir performances at CQ University.
SA
Those in Adelaide can learn about reconciliation and Australian aboriginal history through the power of filmmaking at a free screening of Rabbit Proof Fence at Capri Theatre. The event will even feature a Welcome to Country by Uncle Moogy.
There will also be other events taking place, such as music performances and art classes.
Tasmania
If you’re studying in Hobart, we recommend attending the Hobart National Reconciliation Week Breakfast, taking place on 31 May 2024. To see more upcoming events, visit the Reconciliation Tasmania calendar.
Victoria
The National Reconciliation Week events calendar is always packed and varied in Victoria. In Melbourne, you can check out the Richmond Football Club’s event, which will include a barbecue and dance performances. The Aboriginal Heritage Walk is also free of charge throughout Reconciliation Week, where you can learn about Aboriginal plant uses, customs and ongoing connection to Country.
WA
If you’re living in WA, be sure to check out any of the events and activities being offered during the week. For example, you can attend the Walk for Reconciliation, bush tucker tastings or cultural awareness workshops.
