National NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia in the first week of July each year (Sunday to Sunday), to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations histories and cultures and participate in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on Earth.

NAIDOC Week 2025 marks a powerful milestone: 50 years of NAIDOC Week, honouring and elevating Indigenous voices, culture and resilience. The NAIDOC journey began as a movement for recognition and rights, sparked by Indigenous communities who saw a future built on justice and equality. Over the decades, it has grown into a powerful national celebration, a testament to the enduring strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

As we commemorate this 50-year legacy of NAIDOC Week, we also look forward, honouring the next generation who will carry the torch, shaping the future with courage, insight and deep respect for our roots. Guided by the wisdom of our Elders and the groundwork laid by our forebears, each NAIDOC Week reinforces our vision for an Australia where Indigenous voices are not only heard but also lead the way.

The 2025 NAIDOC Week theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy”, celebrates not only the achievements of the past but also the bright future ahead, empowered by the strength of our young leaders, the vision of our communities and the legacy of our ancestors. From solid foundations, the next generation will rise — grounded in history and the strength of our Elders; inspired by a shared vision; and committed to building a legacy of unity, respect and self-determination for all.