City of Darwin is offering $50,000 in funding for community events and initiatives taking place during NAIDOC Week 2025 (6 - 13 July 2025) and Reconciliation Week 2026 (27 May – 3 June 2026), to support activities that connect community and encourage participation.

Groups can apply for between $5,000 and $10,000 in funding, with applications open from Saturday 1 March until Monday 31 March 2025. 

City of Darwin Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis encouraged First Nations organisations, registered businesses and associations to apply.

“NAIDOC Week is a week-long event that celebrates history, culture and achievements of First Nations,” Mr Vatskalis said.

“Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements. 

“We launched the NAIDOC Week and Reconciliation Week funding opportunities last year and have already supported a number of fantastic initiatives, including the Impact North Reconciliation Week Changemaker Event, which included a series of networking and upskilling events for First Nations business leaders; Guyugwa - BlakHouse at Brown's Mart, a NAIDOC celebration weekend; and the Story Indigenous Mural, celebrating the contribution of First Nations players to Wanderers Football Club.

“I look forward to seeing the range of successful grant recipients for NAIDOC Week 2025 and Reconciliation Week 2026,” he said.

This year NAIDOC Week celebrates 50 years of honouring and elevating First Nations voices, culture, and resilience. 

The 2025 theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy," celebrates the achievements of the past and the bright future ahead.

Reconciliation Week is a time dedicated to building positive, respectful relationships between Australians and celebrating First Nations’ culture. 

Funding will be awarded to activities that celebrate Larrakia or other First Nations achievements or history, activities that connect community and encourage participation and activities that actively promote Reconciliation.

First Nations organisations that are registered with Northern Territory Indigenous Business Network or Supply Nation, organisations that are incorporated not-for-profit and community groups and individuals that are auspiced by an incorporated organisation can apply.

Activities must occur within the Darwin municipality and must be inclusive and accessible. 

The Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week grants will support activities that contribute to delivering the outcomes outlined in City of Darwin’s Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

For more information contact City of Darwin’s Community Development Officer on 08 8930 0300 or email communitygrants@darwin.nt.gov

To apply, applicants must complete the Smartygrants form via City of Darwin’s website - darwin.nt.gov.au/community/programs/grants-sponsorship/reconciliation-week-naidoc-week-funding