January 26 remains a contentious date in Australia, often referred to as Invasion Day or Survival Day by First Nations communities.
If you're looking for ways to support and stand in solidarity with mob, here are some key events happening across Perth and Western Australia on the day and throughout the weekend.
Major Events in Perth
Invasion Day Protest
Boorloo's annual Invasion Day Protest will begin at Forest Chase in the CBD. The march will feature speakers and entertainment.
Time: 12 PM – 1:30 pm then at 2pm, a Yarning Circle with grassroots Elders
Location: Forest Chase, Boorloo CBD
Birak Concert
One of Western Australia's premier celebrations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, the Birak Concert is a family-friendly event featuring live performances, dance, community stalls, and interactive art installations. It's an opportunity to experience First Nations talent and culture in a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere.
Where: Supreme Court Gardens, Perth
When: Sunday, January 26, 2025 | 3:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Culture Evolves Dance Performance
Experience a stunning dance performance celebrating the evolution of Indigenous culture. This event showcases traditional and contemporary dance, illustrating the resilience and adaptability of First Nations communities.
Where: Victory Park, Perth
Live Music & Film Screenings
Kiwirrkurra Band Performances
Hailing from the Kiwirrkurra Community, the Kiwirrkurra Band brings their signature Western Desert reggae-rock fusion to audiences in Fremantle and Scarborough. Their music, sung in multiple languages, provides a powerful platform for storytelling and connection.
Where: Fremantle Arts Centre & Scarborough
When: Sunday, January 26, 2025 | 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
FOCUS: First Nation Films
Enjoy an evening under the stars watching a selection of Indigenous films as part of Fremantle's premier Indigenous-focused film program. This event provides a thought-provoking and moving insight into First Nations storytelling and perspectives.
Where: Fremantle Arts Centre
When: Saturday, January 25 - Sunday, January 26, 2025 | 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Reflect and Respect Film Dome
The Reflect and Respect Film Dome will feature a selection of films including Koora, Koora: A Long Long Time Ago, inspired by the storybooks of respected Aboriginal Elder Theresa Walley, as well as Six Noongar Seasons (courtesy of the Royal Agricultural Society of WA), The Story of Us (produced by Auspire), and Australian Values (supplied by the Department of Home Affairs). These films will be shown on rotation with giveaways and other entertainment throughout the afternoon. Cost: Free
Where: Langley Park, Riverside Drive
When: Sunday, January 26, 2025 | 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Alternative Events Around WA
Ballardong First Festival
This three-day festival in York offers an inclusive celebration of Aboriginal history and culture through storytelling, language, music, dance, and food. It's an excellent opportunity to deepen your understanding of the Ballardong Noongar people and their traditions.
Where: Avon Park, York
When: Saturday, January 25 - Monday, January 27, 2025
Rubibi Survival Day
A night of powerful performances from Indigenous artists across the Kimberley region, celebrating strength, resilience, and cultural pride.
Where: Gimme Club, Goolarri Media Enterprises, Broome
When: Sunday, January 26, 2025 | 4:00 PM - 11:00 PM
January 26 is a time for reflection, recognition, and resilience. Whether you attend a rally, enjoy live performances, or support First Nations businesses, there are many ways to engage meaningfully and show solidarity with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.