NAIDOC is about celebrating the richness, uniqueness and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and cultures. It's about fostering respect among cultures and recognising the value in diversity.

How did NAIDOC emerge?

The emergence of NAIDOC—National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee—dates back to 1920 when the Committee set out to raise awareness about the treatment of Indigenous Australians.

Between the 1920s and the 1930s, new organisations were established to draw attention to the living conditions suffered by Aboriginal people and the lack of their citizenship rights. These organisations included the:

• Australian Aborigines Progress Association
• Australian Aborigines League
• Australian Aborigines Progressive Association

Celebrating the richness and diversity of our cultures

Over the years, NAIDOC has taken responsibility for organising national activities to celebrate the rich, diverse Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and to foster understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultures. The acronym NAIDOC has since become the name of the week-long event.

Who celebrates NAIDOC Week?

NAIDOC Week is now celebrated all over Australia in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, government agencies, schools, local councils and workplaces.

Celebrate NAIDOC all year around

Although celebrated only once each year, NAIDOC is more than just a week-long event. It is the foundation on which we have built a growing culture of inclusiveness. NAIDOC themes and messages echo all year around.