What Is NAIDOC Week?

NAIDOC stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee.

NAIDOC Week is a national celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, history, culture and achievements. Held in the first week of July every year, it’s an invitation for all Australians to listen, learn and show up with respect.

This Year’s Theme: 50 Years of Deadly

Following 50 Years of NAIDOC Week in 2025, this year marks a both a reflective and forward-looking milestone – for those who have built the movement over the past five decades, and of the momentum still building.  

“Fifty Years of Deadly marks a milestone. It’s a tribute to the people who built this movement. the Elders who stood firm, the organisers who made space, the artists who turned resistance into expression, and the communities who keep showing up, year after year.” - NAIDOC Committee

Learn More
Image
The History of NAIDOC Week

NAIDOC Week has a strong legacy grounded in activism, recognition, and Cultural pride. Its evolution over the decades reflects the strength and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in their ongoing fight for justice, equality, and self-determination.

NAIDOC’s roots trace back to the 1938 Day of Mourning, one of the first major civil rights gatherings in the world.

“Aboriginies Day” (defunct) moved from January to the first Sunday in to July, to mark the broader celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Culture.

With the formation of NADOC, National “Aborigines Day” (defunct) expanded into a full week of recognition, led by Aboriginal members and observed nationally each July.

NAIDOC expanded to recognise Torres Strait Islander peoples and became NAIDOC, the name now used for the full week of national observance of culture, pride and progress.

Read More
Image
How to Support NAIDOC Week

NAIDOC Week is more than a celebration – it’s a call to learn, reflect, and stand in solidarity with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Everyone can support First Nations communities, amplify their voices, and walk together on the journey toward truth, justice, and reconciliation.

Find Local Events Near You
Show Up

Attend local events, exhibitions, talks, community gatherings.

Learn + listen

Read First Nations literature, follow First Nations creators, learn about the Country where you live and work.

Support First Nations Organisations

Purchase from First Nations businesses and donate to community-led initiative. 

Start Conversations

Ask, listen, share what you learn

Bring Your Workplace Along

Simple actions make a big difference when organisations and schools participate respectfully.

Is NAIDOC Week Ally Friendly?

NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for all Australians to take part with openness and respect. Allyship isn’t about being perfect, it’s about showing up, learning, and supporting in ways that uplift First Nations voices.

During NAIDOC Week, many choose to wear artwork as a sign of support. Our collection is created in collaboration with First Nations artists, allowing everyone to wear with pride while directly supporting the artist behind the work. 

“I want all people, allies included, to be able to proudly wear their Yarn Products, to show their support of not only me, but the broader Indigenous Australian community” - Merindah-Gunya 

Image