Scholars deepen knowledge of Indigenous Australians ahead of NAIDOC Week
Posted: 5 July 2025
NAIDOC Week is a national celebration in Australia that honours the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Held annually during the first full week of July, the 2025 NAIDOC Week (6–13 July) marks the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC as a national movement.
In the lead up to NAIDOC Week, Australia Awards – South Asia & Mongolia organised a series of cultural learning activities for scholars across Australia. These initiatives aimed to foster deeper understanding and respect for First Nations cultures and perspectives.
A highlight was a multi-day study tour in the Ikara–Flinders Ranges National Park in South Australia. Ten selected scholars, many of whom identify as indigenous or come from marginalised communities, participated in an immersive experience that explored the land, stories, and traditions on Adnyamathanha Country
Additionally, activities took place in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and online, allowing scholars to engage in cultural walks, visit sites of Indigenous significance, and participate in an art and weaving workshops. Sessions were led by Indigenous artists and knowledge holders, offering firsthand insights into Aboriginal heritage and contemporary expression.
Scholars from South Asia and Mongolia pictured together during their visit to the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria for the Melbourne Aboriginal Heritage Walk.
Alice Tamang, a proud Dharug woman and Australia Awards – South Asia & Mongolia’s Indigenous Engagement Advisor, shared her reflections on NAIDOC Week.
“NAIDOC Week is a really special time to come together – as family, as community, and as a country. I love seeing the strength and creativity of our mob on show and having the chance to celebrate all the things that make us proud. Importantly, NAIDOC is also a time of reflection, where as First Nations peoples, we can share our perspectives, reflect on our history and advocate for much needed change. NAIDOC is for everyone, and I really encourage everyone to join us, as we celebrate, learn and reflect.”
Alice (middle) engaging with Sri Lankan scholar Sreen Boralessa (left) and Adnyamathanha guide Izzy (right) during the study tour to the Ikara–Flinders Ranges National Park in South Australia.
Visit the links below to learn more about how scholars from each country participated and what they took away from the experience.
Cover image: Guide Richard Campbell, a member of the Yuin Nation, distributes to scholars a plant traditionally used by the Dharawal people in NSW’s Bundeena Royal National Park.