NAIDOC Week stands for National Aboriginal and Islanders Day Observance Committee Week. While its roots go back to the 1930s civil rights movement, NAIDOC Week as we know it today began in 1975, evolving into a national celebration of First Nations cultures, achievements, and resilience. 

Each year, NAIDOC Week has a theme that reflects a key message or movement. It is celebrated in schools, early learning centres, local communities and by businesses and governments across Australia. 

The 2025 Theme: The Next Generation – Strength, Vision & Legacy 

This year’s theme — The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy — highlights both the enduring strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and the bright future being shaped by younger generations. 

As shared by the National NAIDOC Committee: 

“Together, we walk forward, honouring where we’ve come from and looking boldly to the next generation who will carry NAIDOC and their communities into the future.” 

NAIDOC Week 2025 is not only a celebration — it’s a milestone year and a moment of reflection. It asks us all to think about what kind of future we want for our children, and how we can support them to lead with pride, knowledge and cultural awareness. 

Why NAIDOC Week Matters in Early Learning

Early childhood is a critical time for learning about respect, diversity and cultural identity. NAIDOC Week helps young children develop an understanding of the world around them and introduces them to: 

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stories, symbols and traditions 

• The importance of Country and connection to land 

• Language, song, art and cultural pride 

• Respecting and celebrating difference 

By introducing children to these ideas in a gentle, age-appropriate way, we help build a foundation of respect and inclusivity that will stay with them for life. 

How My Cubby House Celebrates NAIDOC Week 

To honour this special week, My Cubby House Early Learning Centre will be exploring a variety of learning experiences and celebrations that reflect the 2025 theme and promote connection, creativity and cultural respect. These include: 

Storytelling and Dreamtime Tales 

We’ll be sharing stories that have been passed down for generations, helping children understand the importance of oral storytelling in Aboriginal cultures. 

Art and Symbol Exploration 

Children will take part in activities inspired by traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, using symbols and storytelling through painting. 

Music, Dance and Movement 

We will listen to traditional songs, explore rhythms and participate in dance experiences that encourage joyful expression and movement. 

Learning Words in Language 

We will explore simple greetings and words from local Aboriginal languages, helping children connect with the Traditional Custodians of our land. 

Acknowledgement of Country 

We will start each day with an Acknowledgement of Country, showing respect and gratitude to the First Nations people of our local area. 

We also encourage families to share how they celebrate NAIDOC Week at home or in their communities. 

Looking Ahead: Celebrating Culture All Year Round

While NAIDOC Week is an annual celebration, our commitment to cultural inclusion and respect continues every day at My Cubby House. We aim to build strong relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and embed cultural learning throughout our programs. 

Learn More About NAIDOC Week

To read more about NAIDOC Week, this year’s theme, and how to get involved, visit the official website: 
https://www.naidoc.org.au 

Our Commitment to Reconciliation

We respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which My Cubby House Early Learning Centre operates. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their ongoing connection to land, waters and culture. 

As we celebrate NAIDOC Week 2025, we do so with gratitude, respect, and a firm belief in the strength and wisdom of the next generation.