NAIDOC Week is held each July, recognising the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
But what does NAIDOC Week mean, and how can you get involved?
History
NAIDOC Week has its origins in the Aboriginal rights movement of the 1930s and became a week-long national event in the 1970s. Today, it continues to recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Today, NAIDOC Week encourages all Australians to learn, connect with and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through events, ceremonies and cultural activities.
NAIDOC Week is for everyone. All Australians are invited to learn about and take part in the world’s oldest continuing cultures.
The theme
The theme for NAIDOC Week 2026 is “50 Years of Deadly.” It marks a significant milestone and honours the people, communities and leaders who have shaped NAIDOC over the past five decades.
According to the Macquarie Dictionary, the word deadly with its current meaning was originally coined in the 1900s and adopted into Aboriginal English in the 1970s. It is used as a positive term meaning excellent, strong or proud..
The artwork
Each year, a national NAIDOC poster is created by an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander artist. The 2026 artwork by Zaachariaha Fielding reflects themes of movement, story and cultural continuity across generations.
You can download a copy of the poster from the NAIDOC website and display it at home, at work or at school.
Local events
There are many NAIDOC Week events happening across the Northern Beaches. Council will host library storytelling sessions and music performances, as well as a NAIDOC Week community celebration at Narrabeen Tramshed on Sunday 5 July.
The event will include a smoking ceremony, weaving and bush tucker workshops, live performances and a local cultural history talk.
Other ways to celebrate NAIDOC
You can show your support during NAIDOC Week and throughout the year by reading books, listening to music and podcasts, watching content by First Nations creators, or supporting Blak-owned businesses.