NAIDOC Week is an annual celebration in Australia that honours the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The event takes place during the first full week of July each year and is observed by Indigenous communities, schools, workplaces, and government agencies across the nation.

The Meaning Behind NAIDOC

NAIDOC stands for National Aboriginal and Islanders Day Observance Committee. Back when the committee was first formed, it was called NADOC, National Aborigines Day Observance Committee. That original name directly included “Aborigines,” which at the time was the common terminology. In 1991, the name evolved to NAIDOC, reflecting the formal inclusion of Torres Strait Islander peoples and shifting from “Aborigines” to the more respectful “Aboriginal.”  So, while “Aborigine” isn’t spelled out in NAIDOC now, the acronym preserves its historical roots. It’s a bit like an heirloom acronym, keeping a legacy even as language and understanding continue to grow.

Historical Roots

NAIDOC Week traces its origins to the 1938 Day of Mourning, a protest organised by Aboriginal leaders to highlight the injustices faced by Indigenous Australians under British rule. The event evolved over the decades, with the National Aborigines Day Observance Committee (NADOC) being established in 1957. By 1991, the committee expanded to include Torres Strait Islanders, and the observance was renamed NAIDOC Week.

Activities and Celebrations

NAIDOC Week features a wide range of activities, including cultural performances, art exhibitions, educational programs, and community events. Schools and workplaces often organise activities such as storytelling, art competitions, and discussions to promote understanding and respect for Indigenous cultures. Major cities and rural communities host celebratory events, and media outlets like the ABC and SBS dedicate programming to the week.

National NAIDOC Awards

A highlight of the week is the National NAIDOC Awards Ceremony, which recognises the outstanding contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals and organisations. The ceremony is held in a different host city each year and features Indigenous food, music, and cultural performances.

NAIDOC Week Themes

Each year, NAIDOC Week adopts a theme that reflects the aspirations and challenges of Indigenous Australians. Recent themes include "For Our Elders" (2023) and "The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy" (2025). These themes guide the events and discussions held during the week.

NAIDOC Week is a vital opportunity for all Australians to learn about and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It fosters understanding, respect, and a shared commitment to reconciliation and equality.