NAIDOC Week is held each year in July and is an important opportunity for all Australians to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
In 2026, NAIDOC Week will be held from 5 to 12 July. This year’s theme, 50 Years of Deadly, marks five decades of NAIDOC Week and honours the people, communities, Elders, artists, organisers and leaders who have carried the movement forward.
What is NAIDOC Week?
NAIDOC Week is a national celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and achievements. It is also a time for learning, reflection and truth-telling. Across Australia, communities, organisations, schools and workplaces take part in events that recognise the strength, knowledge, creativity and continuing cultures of First Nations peoples.
NAIDOC has deep roots in advocacy and community leadership. Over time, it has grown into a week that brings people together to celebrate culture, recognise achievement and continue important conversations about respect, inclusion and justice.
Why NAIDOC Week matters
NAIDOC Week matters because it invites all of us to listen, learn and take part in celebrating the oldest continuous living cultures on earth. It is a chance to recognise the knowledge, leadership and contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples – past, present and emerging.
It also reminds us that inclusion is not only about words. It is about making time to understand different histories and experiences, strengthening relationships with community, and reflecting on the role we all play in creating places where people feel respected, valued and heard.
Why Melba is talking about NAIDOC Week
At Melba, our work is grounded in human rights, inclusion and respect. Talking about NAIDOC Week is part of our commitment to listening, learning and continuing to strengthen our understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and perspectives. It also connects with the work we are doing through our Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan, which guides us to build stronger relationships, deepen respect and create meaningful opportunities with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.
As an organisation supporting people across Victoria, we are connected to many local communities. NAIDOC Week gives us an opportunity to recognise those connections, encourage respectful learning and support employees, people supported and families to take part in events happening close to them.
Ways to get involved
There are many NAIDOC Week events held across Victoria, including flag raising ceremonies, community days, cultural activities, exhibitions, workshops, performances and screenings. Attending even one local event can be a meaningful way to connect with community and learn more.
People can also take part by reading and listening to First Nations voices, learning about local Aboriginal history, supporting First Nations artists and organisations, and sharing what they learn with others in respectful ways.
Continuing the conversation
NAIDOC Week is more than a date in the calendar. It is a reminder that learning, respect and reconciliation are ongoing. At Melba, we will continue to listen, reflect and look for ways to strengthen our relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities as we progress the commitments in our Innovate RAP.
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