2026 National NAIDOC Awards and 50-Year Celebration to be held on 15 August
The National NAIDOC Committee has announced that the 2026 National NAIDOC Awards and associated 50-Year Celebration events, originally scheduled to be held in Mparntwe (Alice Springs) on 3 and 4 July 2026, will now take place on 15 August 2026.
Following careful consideration, the Committee has determined that moving the national celebration to August will provide the best opportunity to deliver an event that reflects the significance of this historic milestone and brings people together to celebrate 50 Years of Deadly.
Importantly, NAIDOC Week 2026 will continue nationally as planned, providing communities, schools, workplaces and organisations across Australia with the opportunity to celebrate and recognise the history, cultures, achievements and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
The National NAIDOC Award finalists will be announced during NAIDOC Week, with winners to be revealed at the National NAIDOC Awards in Mparntwe on 15 August 2026.
This year marks a significant milestone in the history of NAIDOC, celebrating 50 years of recognising, elevating and honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices, achievements and contributions to our nation.
The National NAIDOC Committee remains committed to delivering a fitting celebration of this milestone and thanks nominees, finalists, sponsors, partners, volunteers and communities for their understanding and ongoing support.
Further information regarding the National NAIDOC Awards and associated events will be released in the coming weeks.
Quotes attributable to Aunty (Prof) Lynette Riley AO, National NAIDOC Committee Co-Chair
“This year marks an important milestone for NAIDOC and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across the country. The Committee is committed to ensuring this anniversary is celebrated in a way that reflects its significance and honours the generations of people who have contributed to the NAIDOC journey.”
“We look forward to recognising our finalists and bringing communities together to celebrate the achievements, leadership and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”
Quotes attributable to Steven Satour, National NAIDOC Committee Co-Chair
“Fifty Years of Deadly is a remarkable milestone for NAIDOC and for our communities. The Committee wants to ensure this celebration is delivered in a way that reflects the significance of the occasion and provides the opportunity for people from across the country to come together and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander excellence.”
“NAIDOC Week remains an important national moment of pride, celebration and reflection, and we look forward to gathering in Mparntwe on 15 August to celebrate this historic milestone.”