Between 27 May and 3 June every year, Australia celebrates National Reconciliation Week (NRW) which marks two significant milestones in Australia's Reconciliation journey:
- 27 May acknowledges the anniversary of the 1967 referendum where more than 90% of voters gave the Commonwealth the power to make laws for Aboriginal people, and for Aboriginal people to be recognised in the national census. It was Australia’s most successful referendum.
- 3 June acknowledges the anniversary of the 1992 landmark decision by the High Court of Australia that overturned the legal doctrine of ‘terra nullius’ and led to the creation of the Native Title Act 1993 and subsequent native title regime. The case was led by Torres Strait Islander man, the late Eddie (Koiki) Mabo and his fellow plaintiffs including the late Rev David Passi and the late James Rice.
National Sorry Day and the Uluru Statement from the Heart (external site) are also acknowledged on 26 May annually. National Reconciliation Week provides an opportunity to celebrate the unique culture and history of Aboriginal people.
National Reconciliation Week 2025
The National Reconciliation Week 2025 theme, Bridging Now to Next (external site) (external site) (external site) (external site) (external site) (external site), reflects the ongoing connection between past, present and future. Encouraging Australians to step forward together during a time of uncertainty in the country’s reconciliation journey.
National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
The South Australian Government Calendar of Events showcases the variety of government events planned across the state in recognition of NRW. See the events for NRW 2025 in the online calendar below.