Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, Suzanne Orr, is inviting all Canberrans to gather at Commonwealth Park on Monday 2 June 2025 for Reconciliation Day, under this year’s National Reconciliation Week theme: ‘Bridging Now to Next’.

The event will feature a vibrant program of free activities, cultural performances, and interactive experiences for all ages. From live music and storytelling to workshops and community conversations, the day offers meaningful opportunities to engage with the histories, cultures, and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Reconciliation Day is a time for all Australians to come together in the spirit of truth-telling, truth-listening, respect and unity. It’s a chance to deepen understanding, strengthen relationships, and walk together toward a more just and equitable future.

Highlights of this year’s program include:

• Headline performance by Kobie Dee, a proud Gomeroi artist whose music inspires change. Kobie will also mentor young performers in a high school vocal competition, with his involvement proudly supported by our partners at NRMA.
• A free community breakfast from 8:30am, followed by a Smoking Ceremony conducted by Justin Reid and Welcome to Country by Uncle Fred Monaghan at 10:00am.
• Performances from a range of popular musical artists, including Meteor Infant, Sistas in Song, Johnny Huckle, Tahalianna Soward-Mahanga, and the Djaarmby Band, showcasing the incredible talent of First Nations artists.
• Cultural workshops, including language sessions, basket weaving, bead making, and native plant and bush tucker activities.
• Children’s activities, including face painting, storytelling, and boomerang painting, as well as interactive stalls hosted by the National Zoo and Aquarium.
• Australian Poetry Slam Artist of the Year, Gomeroi man Rob Waters, sharing his poetry and stories of Aboriginal survival and celebration of culture.
• Panel discussions featuring respected voices such as Karen Mundine, Katrina Fanning, Janet Hunt, Bridget Cama and Karl Briscoe, exploring the path forward for reconciliation.
• A wide variety of food stalls and plenty of green space — bring a picnic rug or chair and spend the day with family and friends.

To ensure everyone can attend, public transport will be free all day, operating on a public holiday timetable. Free direct shuttle buses will run continuously between 9:30am and 3:30pm, between the City Interchange (Platform 3) and the event site at Commonwealth Park (near the Visitor Information Centre). More information is available on the Transport Canberra website.

Minister Orr encouraged all Canberrans to come together at Commonwealth Park this Reconciliation Day to show support for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community in the spirit of reconciliation.

“Reconciliation Day is a fantastic opportunity to join together, listen, learn, and celebrate the strength and culture of First Nations peoples,” Minister Orr said.

“This year’s theme, Bridging Now to Next, reminds us that reconciliation is a journey we take together — grounded in truth, guided by respect, and driven by hope.”

“Canberrans are encouraged come along and enjoy a day of connection, culture, and community at Commonwealth Park on 2 June 2025.”

More information about the event at Commonwealth Park can be found online.

Quotes attributable to Selina Walker, Co-Chair of the ACT Reconciliation Council:

“This year’s theme, Bridging Now to Next, provides an opportunity for us all to reflect on where we are, where we’ve come from, and where we need to go.

“Reconciliation between non-Indigenous and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is everybody’s responsibility. Reconciliation Week provides opportunities to have those awkward but necessary discussions — where true learning and understanding, which is what reconciliation is really about, can take place.

“It’s not an occasion to be celebrated — it’s a human rights movement. And we need people to join in that movement for the future of this country. We are stronger together, side by side.”

Quotes attributable to Richard Baker, Co-Chair of the ACT Reconciliation Council:

“This year’s theme, Bridging Now to Next, invites all Australians to reflect on our shared history — acknowledging the past, learning from it, and working together toward a more just and inclusive future.

“In my role as Co-Chair of the ACT Reconciliation Council, I’ve had the privilege of working with many schools across the ACT. I’m continually inspired by the creative and meaningful reconciliation initiatives being led by students and educators in our community.

“This Reconciliation Week, let’s walk together — from now to next — as we continue building a future grounded in truth and respect.”