It’s 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 origins is 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.