NAIDOC Week 2023
NAIDOC Week is a time to reflect and celebrate the histories, cultures, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, recognising them as the ongoing Custodians of the land.
The department celebrates NAIDOC Week 2023 with our public schools and early childhood education services during Week 10, Term 2. We celebrate NAIDOC Week at this time because it is when schools and services are open and operational.
The theme ‘For Our Elders’ celebrates and pays respect to all Elders, honouring the important role they play as cultural knowledge holders and leaders in the wider community.
We thank the Aboriginal Outcomes and Partnerships Directorate for coordinating these events and for all those within our public schools and early childhood education services who participated.
On Monday, we will release a Round Table Q&A with Elders and Executives from across the department. The video features Elders and Senior Executives answering questions about this year's NAIDOC Week theme as well as a story from Uncle Wes Marne AM.
On Tuesday, we will share a video from Early Childhood Education and Care to inspire creativity with the children at your service. Presented by TV presenter Luke Carroll and Elder Aunty Mary Atkinson, the video features singing, crafts and storytime.
On Wednesday, we will shine a spotlight on some of the work we do in partnership with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander children, families, communities, and organisations in the Port Macquarie-Hasting area, paying tribute to this year's NAIDOC Week theme.
On Thursday, we will showcase the official launch of NAIDOC Week 2023, which includes a keynote speech from Uncle Bob Morgan AM and musical performances from Nepean Performing Arts High School.
On Friday, we will wrap up the celebrations with a tutorial lesson from the Wagana Aboriginal Dance Company followed by another story from Uncle Wes Marne AM.
