NAIDOC week 2026
50 Years of Deadly
The theme of NAIDOC Week 2026, 50 Years of Deadly, honours five decades of strength, pride and resistance; celebrating the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It recognises the legacy of those who came before, the strength of communities today, and the momentum building for generations to come.
At Curtin, this spirit of strength, resilience and legacy is reflected in our Centre for Aboriginal Studies (CAS). Since 1974, CAS has led educational innovation, empowering students and strengthening Indigenous leadership as part of a broader story of progress and self-determination. The first university school dedicated to Aboriginal tertiary education and research in Australia, CAS is well recognised by its logo, the curled Karda (goanna), representing the continuity of life. Dedicated to the memory of Nyungar elder and resistance leader Midgegoroo, the Centre’s lobby is also a visual tribute that embodies the spirit of this years NAIDOC theme.
NAIDOC week 2026
National NAIDOC Week is celebrated across Australia in the first week of July each year (Sunday to Sunday). It honours the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Centre for Aboriginal Studies (CAS)
The Centre for Aboriginal Studies (CAS) offers a culturally safe learning environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, as well as non-Indigenous students and staff.
Cultural immersion education and training
Curtin’s cultural immersion education is designed for industry and community organisations to develop an in-depth awareness and appreciation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural practices, knowledge and history.
A legacy of resilience and determination
A Curtin social work student and a law graduate are demonstrating the diversity of strength, vision and legacy of young Indigenous Australians.
Living, learning and working on Country
Through the On Country Education Teaching Initiative, Curtin University has responded to the need for more Indigenous teachers to be working in public schools – particularly important in regional and remote areas.
Progressing reconciliation
At Curtin, we have a long history of commitment to reconciliation in higher education. We have been delivering education programs with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples since the 1970s, and First Nations and non-Indigenous staff and students at Curtin have continued to work together to shape learning, teaching and research.
Our ongoing commitment to advancing reconciliation and contributing to an Australian society that values and respects Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and heritage is embedded in our Curtin 2030 Strategic Plan.