Why NAIDOC Week Should Be Treated As a ‘Big Calendar’ Event

There are certain events in our calendar we plan for months in advance, without question. Birthdays, weddings, Easter, Christmas - you name it, it’s covered (and covered with haste).

Prep for these events is rarely an afterthought. They’re methodically arranged and rarely left to the last minute.

A celebration that should live in this category is NAIDOC Week. As event managers we notice year after year that people attempt to plan cultural celebrations too close to the first Sunday in July, consistently running the risk of missing out on quality celebrations and talent.

It's not uncommon to receive event management requests one month out from NAIDOC Week, asking for Welcome to Country, cultural performances and immersive activities. But the reality is, the majority of Indigenous suppliers are booked out months in advance for this significant week.

Our advice? Starting planning and budgeting for NAIDOC Week at the start of the year, and aim to lock your celebrations in by March at the very latest. Embrace our Indigenous communities, culture, heritage and history, and be rewarded with the joining of cultures and progression of peace and unity in Australia.

As we increasingly include the beauty of our country’s traditional culture, not just in July but every week, remember to plan in advance, always!