Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander significant dates 2013
Event and program summaries
26 January, Survival Day
Survival Day, held on 26 January, celebrates the survival of Indigenous cultures and peoples.
Annual events take place that showcase all aspects of Indigenous culture, including dance, literature, music, food, language, etc. These events include the Share the Spirit Festival, Treasury Gardens, Victoria and Survival Day concert, Sydney.
13 February, National Apology Day
National Apology Day, held on 13 February, marks the anniversary of the formal apology by the parliament of Australia to the Indigenous peoples, particularly the Stolen Generations.
21 March, Harmony Day
Harmony Day, held on 21 March, promotes a culturally diverse society along with celebrating the inclusive nature of Australia.
24 March, National Close the Gap Day
National Close the Gap Day, held on 24 March, is an opportunity for the society to raise awareness around the Indigenous health crises and promote equality in life expectancy and health status between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.
26 May, National Sorry Day
National Sorry Day, held on 26 May, is commemorated nationally with thousands of Australians from all walks of life participating in memorial services, commemorative meetings, survival celebrations and community gatherings to honour the Stolen Generations.
27 May - 3 June, National Reconciliation Week
National Reconciliation Week, held from the 27 May-3 June, celebrates the rich culture and history of the First Australians. It's an opportunity to think about how we can contribute to alleviating the disadvantage experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
3 June, Mabo Day
Mabo Day, held on 3 June, marks the anniversary of the High Court's historic decision on native title. The day celebrates Eddie Koiki Mabo whose name is synonymous with the decision.
1 July, Coming of the Light
Coming of the Light, held on 1 July, marks the day when the London Missionary Society arrived in the Torres Strait for the first time. The Torres Strait Islanders commemorate this day by holding cultural ceremonies.
3 - 10 July, National NAIDOC Week
National NAIDOC week, held from the first Sunday to the second Sunday in July, is observed to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Indigenous peoples.
NAIDOC stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee'.
4 August, National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Day
National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Day, held on 4 August, is a special events that highlights significant concerns or hope for Aboriginal and Torrres Strait Islander children.
9 August, International Day of the World's Indigenous People
International Day of the World's Indigenous People, held on 9 August, is observed to protect and promote the rights of Indigenous peoples. The event also recognises the contributions of the Indigenous peoples to world issues such as environmental protection.
Part of the Keelbundoora Scarred Tree and Heritage Trail at RMIT's Bundoora West Campus.