NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories and participate in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth. Everyone can support and learn about their local Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities through activities and events held across the country.
Standing for National Aborigines and Islander Day Observance Committee, NAIDOC has its origins as a Day of Mourning protest, first held on the 26 January 1938. Since 1938, a Day of Mourning has been held annually on the Sunday prior to Australia Day. In 1955, a decision was made for the day to be shifted to the first Sunday in July and for it to also be a day of celebration. Today it has grown into a week-long celebration that highlights the strength and resilience of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Each year the City of Melbourne is proud to support activities across the week to acknowledge the contribution that Aboriginal culture, knowledge and heritage does to enrich the city s development. All Melburnians and visitors to the city are encouraged to participate in these activities with the Aboriginal community.
NAIDOC Week 2024
Thanks to everyone who helped us celebrate NAIDOC Week in 2024. View a recap of the events below.
Haus of Dizzy Charm Bracelet Workshop
Welcome to the ultimate bling-tastic workshop with self-confessed 'Queen of Bling', Wiradjuri designer Kristy Dickinson of Haus of Dizzy. Kristy's jewellery celebrates and honours Aboriginal culture through bold and statement-making accessories. In our charm bracelet workshop, we invite you and your friends to the Haus of Dizzy takeover to assemble your own custom charm bracelet from a variety of charms available.
BLAKtivism. Build Blak Power. Fight for Change
At this reflective and provocative panel event, Bebe Oliver discusses the currency of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander activism, guided by Laniyuk, Apryl Day and Iluka Sax-Williams. These voices of inspiration will illuminate some of the past, present and future efforts in our community, with a special performance by A Daylight Connection.
NAIDOC in the City
Following the annual NAIDOC march, NAIDOC in the City is an exciting celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures, achievements and talents. We have a stellar lineup of First Nations talent on the main stage, the Koori Heritage Trust NAIDOC market to explore, free drop-in workshops and kids' activities.
Junior Ranger Bush Food and Bizarre Bugs
Kids! Why are bugs important to the world? What is bush food? Discover the answer to these questions and more in these activities led by City of Melbourne Park Rangers and Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation.
Melbourne Zoo Community Day
Join us to close out NAIDOC week with a range of First Nations led activities for children, young people and families. A collaboration by Aboriginal Melbourne and Melbourne Zoo.
Josh Deane: Crackle of the Cockatoos
This intriguing installation by Palawa contemporary artist Josh Deane features a group of paper mache cockatoos, with each sculpture incorporating paper as a tribute to the library environment. Inspired by the profound bond his grandad shared with a cockatoo, which served as his totem and spirit animal, Josh's artwork reflects his personal connection to these majestic birds.
