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NAIDOC Week: What it is and How You Can Get Involved

NAIDOC Week is celebrated around the country and recognises the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This year, NAIDOC week is 6-13 July 2025. 

NAIDOC Week is the perfect time to learn more about the rich history of our First Nations peoples and enjoy the incredible events happening around the country.

Read more: Five Things You Can do Right Now to Support and Celebrate First Nations Culture

What is NAIDOC Week?

NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia in the first week of July each year from Sunday to Sunday. By attending NAIDOC Week events and activities, you’ll support your local First Nations communities, learn about their histories and participate in the celebrations of one of Earth’s oldest living civilisations. 

Everyone living in Australia – including international students – should make an effort during this time (and always) to learn and pay respect to the original owners of this land.

2025 NAIDOC Week theme

Each year, a different theme is picked for NAIDOC Week. In 2025, the theme is The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy. This year’s NAIDOC Week marks a powerful milestone: 50 years of honouring and elevating Indigenous voices, culture, and resilience.

The NAIDOC Week website explains: “Celebrates not only the achievements of the past but the bright future ahead, empowered by the strength of our young leaders, the vision of our communities, and the legacy of our ancestors.”

Awards are also given at the annual National NAIDOC Awards Ceremony, celebrating Indigenous Australians’ contributions to improving lives within their communities and beyond, promoting Indigenous issues to the wider public, or demonstrating excellence in their chosen fields.

How can I get involved?

NAIDOC Week is celebrated across the country through local community events. To find some in your area, visit the dedicated events page and type in your postcode. 

To get you started, some exciting events in major Australian cities include:

Sydney – NAIDOC in the City

10 July 2025

A celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and enterprise featuring music, dance, crafts, arts and products and services from First Nations businesses. Admission is free, and the event is held at the iconic Sydney Town Hall.

Melbourne – NGV NAIDOC Celebration

12 July 2025

Celebrate NAIDOC Week at the National Gallery of Victoria! Get creative in artist-led workshops, learn how bark paintings are made, or just explore the exclusive exhibitions on display.

Brisbane – Musgrave Park Family Fun Day

11 July 2025

Check out the largest NAIDOC Week event of its kind in Australia at Musgrave Park. Entertainment includes live entertainment on two stages, dance performances, information, education, community and food stalls, arts and craft activities and children’s rides.

Adelaide – NAIDOC Week Celebration – The Next Generation

12 July 2025

Head to the North Adelaide Community Centre to enjoy live music, learn some Kaurna language, listen to inspiring stories, and treat your tastebuds to a light afternoon tea made with indigenous ingredients.

Perth – The Goologoolup NAIDOC Screenings

1-31 July 2025

This multi-week program showcases Indigenous art, featuring films, sculptures, and paintings from art communities across Australia.

Canberra – NAIDOC in the North 2025

12 July 2025

NAIDOC in the North is a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Culture through story, song, art, dance and ceremony. Enjoy workshops, performances, activities and entertainment.

Darwin – Garrmalang Retrospective

21 June – 12 November 2025

This special photographic retrospective honours the powerful moments, faces and stories that have shaped Garrmalang Festival – NT’s dedicated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts and cultural festival – over the past 10 years.

Launceston – NAIDOC Week at QVMAG

10-13 July 2025

As part of NAIDOC Week 2025 celebrations, QVMAG is proud to welcome the return of Tasmanian Aboriginal artist Rod Gardner for a series of free, live art sessions. Or, try your hand at weaving bracelets.