The first NAIDOC poster was created in 1972 to promote “Aborigines Day”.
The protest nature of the posters continued until 1977 with titles such as “Self Determination” and
“Chains or Chance” publicising political change and a day of remembrance.
A quick glance at the titles of the posters over the past 10 years provides a useful guide to the issues that have been important to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders over the decade from 2015-2025. Between 2020 and this year, 2025 the posters have focused on major political catch cries and the swelling voices calling for still long overdue change.
National NAIDOC themes and host cities
2015: “We all Stand on Sacred Ground: Learn, Respect and Celebrate” (Adelaide) – a plea to the wider
Australian population?
2016: “Songlines: The living narrative of our nation” (Darwin) – focused on the unique and living nature of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander connection to this land as a living entity.
2017: “Our languages matter” (Cairns) – advocated for the deadly importance of keeping language alive.
2018: “Because of her, we can!” (Sydney) – paying homage to the strength of Aboriginal women and their profound importance to advocacy and solidarity.
2019: “Voice Treaty Truth” (Melbourne) – focused on the VOICE referendum that was betrayed by a lack of political advocacy.
2020: “Always Was, Always Will Be” – the eternal right Australian Aboriginal peoples have to sovereignty in their land.
2021: “Heal Country, heal our nation” – how protecting Country heals aboriginal nations.
2022: “Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up!” – the importance of engagement.
2023: “For Our Elders” – focusing on the particular importance of the knowledge carried by The Elders.
2024: “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud” – a movement inspired by all forms of art that
keep the fires of creativity burning.
2025: “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy” – (Perth) a profound call-out for the power of youth.
