Reflect. Respect. Celebrate. We're all part of the story.

Celebrate Australia Day 2026 with the City of Darwin - a day to honour the Australian spirit, our cultural diversity, achievements and resilience. It’s also a special time to acknowledge First Nations Australians who have conducted ceremonies on this land for tens of thousands of years.

The City of Darwin is proud to present the Citizen of the Year Awards 2026 on behalf of the Australia Day Council – Northern Territory, recognising individuals who go above and beyond for our community.

In Darwin, the day will feature:

• A Welcome to Country, didgeridoo and tap stick performance and smoking ceremony by Larrakia Nation.
• Presentation of the Citizen of the Year Awards 2026
• Australian Defence Force activations, including the 21 Gun Salute, ADF flypast and live entertainment by the Band of the 1st Brigade.
• Family-friendly activities: free sausage sizzle, face painting and children’s activities by Fun in the Parks
• All-day free admission to Casuarina, Nightcliff and Parap pools.

This free community celebration is assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council and Australia Day Council of Northern Territory.

Come together to reflect, respect and celebrate.

We can’t wait to see you there!