National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is recognised annually from 27 May to 3 June.
The week provides an important opportunity for Australians to come together and learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements. It is a time to reflect on the past and explore ways we can contribute to a more inclusive future.
As a nation, we should consciously work towards reconciliation in all aspects of our lives. This will help us foster a society that values respectful relationships between non-Indigenous people and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia.
For more information about reconciliation efforts, please visit Reconciliation Australia's website. During National Reconciliation Week in 2025, many teams across UQ will organise events for staff and students.
We invite you to explore reconciliation at UQ, view our events program below, and join us in supporting this important initiative and working towards a better Australia.
Theme – 'Bridging Now to Next'
'Bridging Now to Next' urges us to look ahead and continue the push forward as past lessons guide us.
At a time when Australia faces uncertainty in its reconciliation journey, this theme calls on all Australians to step forward together.
In the #NRW2025 theme artwork created by Kalkadoon woman Bree Buttenshaw, native plants − known for regenerating after fire and thriving through adversity − symbolise our collective strength and the possibilities of renewal. This is a time for growth, reflection, and commitment to walking together.
Australia’s history of reconciliation is not a linear one but one that includes both great strides and disappointing setbacks. Twenty-five years ago, Corroboree 2000 brought together Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous leaders in a historic call for reconciliation. We continue that work in 2025, inviting all Australians to join us in 'Bridging Now to Next' – building a more united and respectful nation.
Corroboree 2000 and the Sydney Harbour Bridge walk were significant events in our long journey and our determination to continue that journey towards a reconciled Australia and justice for First Nations peoples is unstoppable.
Days of Significance
Lighting of Forgan Smith
Throughout National Reconciliation Week, UQ's Forgan Smith building was bathed in either red and yellow or green and blue to represent the colours of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags.
2025 Program
Please note: More events to be added to the program soon.
Dr Mary Mahoney AO Amphitheatre, St Lucia
Celebrate the launch of Professor Anita Heiss’ new book, Red Dust Running, with line dancing, a 'Voices for Reconciliation' choir performance, refreshments, and a prize for best Rodeo outfit!
UQ Art Museum
Explore the interconnection between ecology and social systems through Indigenous art, highlighting strategies for survival and cultural healing.
(Photo: Rosella Namok Old Girls Yarning into the Night 2024. UQ Art Museum Window Commission, 2024. Courtesy of the artist and FireWorks Gallery, Brisbane. Photo: Joe Ruckli)