In an Australia Day first, the Australia Day Council of NSW through Destination NSW is inviting First Nations artists to share their stories, culture and connection to Country on one of the nation’s most iconic landmarks, with an open expression of interest to have their artwork projected onto the Sydney Opera House sails for the 2027 Dawn Reflection.
The initiative will create a new opportunity for First Nations artists to showcase their work on a nationally recognised stage, reaching audiences across Australia through broadcast, photography, media coverage and digital channels. It is the first time an expression of interest process has been used to select the artwork for the Dawn Reflection projection.
Artists are invited to submit existing original works across a range of formats, including painting, drawing, photography and graphic design. Submissions should reflect the 2027 Dawn Reflection theme, Coming Together, celebrating traditional stories, culture, Country and community.
Australians come together on Australia Day in different ways and for different reasons. The theme Coming Together invites reflection on our shared history, recognition of the enduring cultures of First Nations peoples and appreciation of the many stories that continue to shape modern Australia.
Since 2021, Dawn Reflection has become a significant part of the Australia Day in Sydney program. As the first light of dawn breaks over Sydney Harbour, a First Nations artwork transforms the Opera House sails, while the Australian and Aboriginal flags are raised on the Sydney Harbour Bridge in a moment of respect and shared understanding.
At the 2026 Dawn Reflection, Garry Purchase’s Dancing in the Moonlight illuminated the sails, depicting the sacred BurriBurri, the humpback whale, breaching beneath a night sky. The artwork evoked an ancient journey stretching back to time immemorial, with a path written across the Dreaming and reflected in the stars.
The 2027 Dawn Reflection will again bring people together at Sydney Harbour to mark Australia Day, forming part of a broader program of experiences that celebrate the significance of the national day and showcase Sydney to locals and visitors alike.
The expression of interest is open to First Nations artists with existing original works that align with the 2027 Dawn Reflection theme, Coming Together. The successful Dawn Reflection artwork for 2027 will be selected by a panel comprising First Nations’ leaders and arts professionals. For eligibility details, submission requirements and information on how to apply, visit australiaday.com.au.
Dawn Reflection is delivered by Destination NSW in partnership with the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council.
The full Australia Day in Sydney program will be announced in early January 2027.
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said:
“For the first time, First Nations artists are being invited through an open expression of interest process to have their work projected onto the Sydney Opera House sails as part of Dawn Reflection, creating a unique opportunity to share culture, stories and connection to Country with audiences across Australia.
“Dawn Reflection is a powerful Australia Day moment that invites reflection of our history and recognition of the enduring cultures of First Nations people and appreciation for the many stories that continue to shape our nation.
“Australia Day is an opportunity to celebrate what unites us. Our shared values. Our diversity. The spirit of mateship that defines our nation and what makes us inherently Australian.”
Australia Day Council of NSW Chair Yvonne Weldon AM said:
“This expression of interest creates an exciting opportunity for First Nations artists to share their work on one of Australia's most recognised landmarks.
“We are seeking artwork that reflects traditional stories, culture, Country and community, and that speak to the connections between people, place and the many ways we come together.
“Australia Day is a time for inclusion and recognition. It is also an opportunity to reflect on and honour our shared history, continuing the significant contributions and custodianship of First Nations people, while embracing our diversity and strengthening bonds that unite as a community.”
Destination NSW CEO Karen Jones said:
“As the sun rises over Sydney Harbour, Dawn Reflection is an opportunity for reflection and connection through First Nations artwork that celebrates culture, storytelling and Country.
“Destination NSW is proud to continue working with the Australia Day Council of NSW and Metro Local Aboriginal Land Council to deliver this significant Australia Day event.”
