NAIDOC Week: Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud

National NAIDOC Week is celebrated across Australia in the first week of July each year, dedicated to celebrating and recognising the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

This year's theme, ‘Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud’, celebrates the unyielding spirit of our communities and invites all to stand in solidarity, amplifying the voices that have long been silenced.

The NAIDOC theme changes every year, decided by the National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) whose co-chair is Wiradjuri and Gamilaroi woman, Aunty Lynette Riley.

According to ABC News, while it's now one of the largest events on the calendar for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, Aunty Lynette said it was a celebration for everyone.

"For me, this is about ensuring that the dreams of our elders who started NAIDOC as a protest are honoured and one way to do that is by being involved," she said.

"NAIDOC is for everybody.

"One of the problems we've got is there are still many Australians who don't understand who we are and our cultures."

As one of Queensland’s leading providers of mental health, wellbeing, and suicide prevention services, we are committed to recognising, respecting, and embracing First Nations cultural practices within the diverse communities we serve.

We understand that connection to land, community, and traditional practices plays a crucial role in fostering positive mental wellbeing. Through tailored services and support, we can provide more inclusive and equitable mental health care.

selectability will host a variety of activities and programs throughout the week right across our footprint, encouraging consumers and community members to participate in local events and learn more about the importance of the week.

Find out more about what’s happening near you by visiting our events calendar.