Australia Day is a time to reflect, respect and celebrate the Australian spirit and the best of this country – our mateship, our sense of community and our resilience.

Australia Day in Sydney strives to be an event that can be enjoyed by all. We proudly place First Nations culture at the forefront of the program. Each year the NSW program is strengthened through ongoing collaborations with First Nations representatives who contribute significantly to its narrative, creativity and authenticity.

Destination NSW and the Australia Day Council of NSW present a progressive Australia Day in Sydney program which brings hundreds of thousands of people together to enjoy free events and celebrate being Australian.

From first light until late at night, the program takes place across a massive event precinct incorporating Barangaroo, Sydney Harbour, Circular Quay, Sydney Opera House and The Rocks.

Dawn Reflection and WugulOra Morning Ceremony encourages the community to reflect on our shared history and First Nations cultures.

The Midday Salute shows our respect to our cultural and ceremonial traditions in a tribute to the nation.

Harbourfest transforms Sydney’s iconic harbour into a dazzling celebration of our nation, with exhilarating experiences across sea, shore and sky.

As night falls, Australia Day Live unites the country with an unforgettable concert featuring an all-star lineup of Aussie talent and dazzling fireworks. The Concert is broadcast live to the nation on ABC TV.

Learn more about the 2026 program here.

Destination NSW delivers the Australia Day in Sydney event program.