Canberra is hosting a week-long series of cultural, educational and community events to celebrate the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week, marking five decades of recognising the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across Australia.

Observed under the theme "50 Years of Deadly", NAIDOC Week 2026 features free public events, exhibitions, guided tours, performances and community gatherings designed to promote greater awareness of Indigenous heritage and strengthen cultural understanding.

The celebrations officially commenced on July 5 with the ACT NAIDOC Week Flag Raising Ceremony at Boomanulla Oval in Narrabundah. Organised by the Canberra and Districts NAIDOC Aboriginal Corporation (CADNAC), the event included a Welcome to Country, Torres Strait Islander greetings and community participation, setting the tone for the week-long observance.

Several of Canberra's leading cultural institutions have curated special programmes for the occasion. The National Museum of Australia is hosting First Nations guided tours, cultural exhibitions, live mural painting, traditional smoking ceremonies and interactive activities highlighting Indigenous knowledge, creativity and history. Visitors can also witness Haida artist Clarence Mills carving a traditional totem pole as part of the celebrations.

Australian Parliament House has joined the observance by illuminating its façade with "Numbat Night", an artwork by Walmajarri artist John Prince Siddon. The illuminated display is accompanied by additional public events celebrating Indigenous storytelling and artistic traditions.

The National Film and Sound Archive of Australia (NFSA) is screening The Colleano Heart, a documentary exploring the life of celebrated Aboriginal boxer and entertainer Con Colleano. The screening is followed by an interactive discussion with filmmaker and NFSA Head of First Nations Engagement Pauline Clague.

Meanwhile, the Museum of Australian Democracy (MOAD) is conducting daily "First Nations Experience of Democracy" tours, offering visitors an opportunity to learn about the role Indigenous Australians have played in shaping the nation's democratic institutions and political landscape.

Community participation remains a central feature of this year's celebrations. Canberra Community Services will organise the ACT Community Sector NAIDOC Celebration at Tuggeranong Community Centre, featuring live music, cultural performances, market stalls and family-friendly activities.

The week will conclude with NAIDOC in the North 2026 at Belconnen Arts Centre on July 11, where local First Nations artists, performers and community organisations will come together for a day of cultural exhibitions, live entertainment and public engagement.

Officials said the anniversary provides an opportunity for people from all backgrounds to celebrate Indigenous cultures, acknowledge the contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and deepen understanding through shared experiences.

As NAIDOC Week marks its 50th year, celebrations across Canberra reflect Australia's continued efforts to honour Indigenous heritage while encouraging dialogue, reconciliation and stronger community connections.