NAIDOC WEEK 2026 – 5 to 12 July Honoring the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC Week is one of Australia’s most important national celebrations, recognizing the enduring knowledge, resilience, and contributions of First Nations communities.
The theme for NAIDOC Week 2026 is “50 Years of Deadly”, marking five decades of celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander strength, culture, and leadership. This theme honors Elders, activists, creators, and communities who have sustained the NAIDOC movement, emphasizing intergenerational knowledge sharing, youth leadership, and cultural resilience.
NAIDOC Week student competitions:
- Kindergarten–Year 2 Colouring Competition – students are invited to complete the NAIDOC Week colouring competition entry. Colouring Comp K-2
- Years 3–6 Story Writing Competition – students are invited to write a creative story based on the prompt: “Last NAIDOC at my school the weirdest thing happened at my school. Let your creativity and imagination flow.” Entries must be typed on A4 paper, with a maximum of 500 words. Please ensure the student’s name, grade and class are clearly included on both their story and the official entry form. Story writing competition yr 3-6
- Years 7–9 Comic Strip Competition – students are invited to create a comic strip in response to the NAIDOC Week theme. Entries must be completed on A4 paper, with the student’s name and grade clearly included on both their work and the official entry form. Comic Strip 7-9
- Years 10–12 Essay Writing Competition – students are invited to submit an essay that encourages learning and reflection on NAIDOC Week, including the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Essay writing competition yr 10-12
All entries must be received by close of business on Friday 26 June 2026 at the co-ordination centre, GPO Box 454 Sydney NSW2001.
Judging will take place on Friday 10 July 2026, and winners will be notified through their school, with presentations taking place at school assemblies.