News
Reconciliation Week 2025
23 May 2025
National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June) is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements — and to explore how we can each contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
The 2025 theme, "Bridging Now to Next," is a reminder that, no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people must continue. Whether you're attending a community event, engaging with First Nations voices, or learning something new, there are plenty of ways to get involved this year.
Below is a curated list of events, activities, and resources across Melbourne and online that we encourage our communities to explore:
Panel Discussions & Learning Events:
- Reconciliation, Change & Partnerships – University of Melbourne. Join this in-person event with refreshments and a dynamic panel exploring pathways to reconciliation (31 May).
- Treaty in Victoria – RMIT University. A hybrid panel discussion unpacking the Treaty process in Victoria — attend in person or online (27 May).
- First Knowledges: Health – Book Reading. Hear a special reading from First Knowledges: Health, celebrating Indigenous wisdom and storytelling (26 May).
- National Reconciliation Week Oration – City of Melbourne. Tune into the livestream for a powerful oration reflecting on this year's theme and the path ahead (27 May).
Arts, Culture & Ceremony:
- Blak Ink – Narrm Ngarrgu Library. A celebration of Aboriginal literature and storytelling featuring a lineup of compelling First Nations writers (29 May).
- Aboriginal Heritage Walk – Royal Botanic Gardens. Connect with Country on this guided walk sharing stories of land, culture, and belonging (ongoing).
- Bunjil Creation Dance Ceremony – CBD. Experience an evocative ceremony telling the creation story of Bunjil through movement and dance (29 March).
- Reconciliation on the Rooftop – North Fitzroy Library. Begin the week with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony in a community setting (27 May).
- Yarning Circle – Camberwell Library. Join a reflective discussion on truth-telling and the journey toward the future (27 May).
Outer Suburbs:
- Get Your Reconciliation On! – Frankston. A fun, family-friendly event celebrating culture and community connection (31 May).
- Flag Raising & Morning Tea – Mordialloc. A respectful gathering at the Derrimut Weelam Gathering Place to mark the start of Reconciliation Week (27 May).
- Welcome to Country & Music – Malvern Town Hall. Featuring Wurundjeri Elder Uncle Colin Hunter and a musical performance by Amos Roach, sharing songs of culture and healing (3 June).
Sector-Focused:
- First Nations Economic Empowerment – AICD. Explore pathways to economic justice and strong governance in this AICD-hosted webinar (23 May).
Explore More Resources
- Reconciliation Week Reading List – Melbourne Library Service. A handpicked list of books that deepen your understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander experiences.
- Songs in Language – AIATSIS Spotify Playlist. A moving playlist featuring songs in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages.
- VACCHO. Learn more about the work of the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation.