Reconciliation Week 2025
National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a time for all Australians to learn about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures, and achievements, and to think about the role we can all play in achieving reconciliation in Australia.
This year's Reconciliation theme, Bridging Now to Next, highlights the ongoing connection between past, present and future and asks each of us to think about the steps we can take – individually and together – to contribute to a reconciled future.
The theme is a timely reminder to stop, reflect and reframe after what has been a pretty tough period in terms of racism, inclusion of Aboriginal people and finding safe spaces for mob. It is too easy to let the loud voices filled with racism and ignorance drown out the considerable willingness of allies; efforts of mob; and contributions of the many people who are listening, creating space and stepping in the right direction.
Bridging Now to Next, reminds us that Australia’s history of reconciliation is not a linear one, and over the years, we have experienced disappointing setbacks but more importantly, we have made significant progress towards a shared understanding and commitment to a more united and respectful future. We need to focus on those wins and keep taking those important steps forward.
Bridging Now to Next pays homage to Corroboree 2000, the history-making bridge walk twenty-five years ago that brought together Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non-Aboriginal people in a historic call for reconciliation. I remember this day so clearly that I struggle to believe it was 25 years ago! Sharing stories of this day, and the goodwill of the people who flowed across the bridge, with my children has helped them to see that we as a nation will get past the racism and ignorance that feels overwhelming at this time.
Reconciliation Week is a good time to think about steps we can take to change the conversation, share the knowledge needed to drive understanding, encourage respect for the journey of the world’s oldest continuing cultures and clear the path for a united future for this great nation now called Australia.
Explore Reconciliation with Wingaru Kids
The Wingaru team has put together some complete lessons to help your class explore reconciliation and this year’s theme. Subscribers will find these lessons on their dashboards.
Not a subscriber? Trial Wingaru Kids for free and see how we can support you with Aboriginal perspectives all year round.
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Book in, and attend the Wingaru Kids Walkthrough Webinar before the end of May for your chance to win a 12 month single teacher subscription.
Get Involved This Reconciliation Week
In the classroom
Complete our Classroom Reconciliation Challenge - this free downloadable challenge includes 9 activities that support your class to contribute to reconciliation and think about steps they can take to bridge now to next.
Learn about Corroboree 2000 and the impact this significant bridge walk had in generating and showcasing commitment to unity and creating space for important conversations about reconciliation.
Explore the key events that take place during reconciliation week - The 1967 Referendum and Mabo Day. Both are significant steps forward in the reconciliation journey. Check out Wingaru Kids for resources to support you.
At Home
Attend a reconciliation activity in your local area - Reconciliation Australia have a calendar of events to help you find public events https://www.reconciliation.org.au/calendar/
Explore books, movies, documentaries and activities that share Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge to increase your families understanding of First Nations cultures, histories and people. We have a range of games and resources that can help.
Complete our Family Reconciliation Challenge - this free downloadable challenge includes 9 activities that support your family to explore reconciliation.
In the Workplace
Cultural Awareness Training - offer ongoing professional development sessions led by Aboriginal educators to deepen understanding of First Nations histories, cultures, and contemporary issues. Our Butabuta team can help.
Commit to reconciliation by developing a Reconciliation Action Plan outlining specific, measurable actions.
Start important conversations - host yarning circles for staff (our Reconciliation Yarn Cards can help get you started); invite local Elders and community people in to share story or connect with Aboriginal organisations to explore partnerships and initiatives.