This NAIDOC Week celebrates 50 Years of Deadly, marking five decades of NAIDOC Week as we honour the generations of Elders, activists, artists and communities who have shaped the movement.

Member for Cunningham, Alison Byrnes MP, said she was delighted to support five local organisations in celebrating this important occasion with more than $10,000 through the 2026 NAIDOC Local Grants.

Today, Ms Byrnes joined the community at the Bellambi Neighbourhood Centre’s NAIDOC Family Fun Day to recognise the milestone and embrace the 65,000 years of culture and tradition of our First Nations peoples.

“NAIDOC Week is an important time to celebrate the unique history, culture and accomplishments of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people,” Alison Byrnes said.

“At a time when some are trying to divide us, NAIDOC Week is also an important opportunity to come together, reflect, share experiences and build greater understanding.”

“I’m so pleased the Albanese Government has supported today’s event at the Bellambi Neighbourhood Centre, as well as the initiatives by Warrawong Residents Forum, Goodstart Early Learning Corrimal, the Illawarra Aboriginal Corporation and Bars Behind me Inc.,” she said.

The NAIDOC Grants are intended to support grassroots and community-led initiatives that bring people together to celebrate and reflect on the strength and diversity of First Nations cultures.

Ms Byrnes also acknowledged the incredible efforts of workers, volunteers and service providers who make local NAIDOC events a huge success every year.

“Congratulations to Cath Daly and all her team on yet another fantastic NAIDOC community day. It was wonderful to see such a strong turnout from local families, community members and service providers,” Ms Byrnes said.

“I know a lot of people will also have been disappointed that some of the NAIDOC events this week were postponed due to the weather, particularly Ash Castro and his team at the Warrawong Residents Forum. I am sure the community will still come out in full force to celebrate together in a few weeks.”

“Thank you to everyone who has supported local NAIDOC celebrations again this year, and happy 50 Years of Deadly,” Ms Byrnes concluded.     

Successful 2026 NAIDOC Grants in Cunningham