The Minns Labor Government has today unveiled the nation's largest Australia Day program, delivering an action-packed, Australia Day celebration that reflects NSW's shared values and rich diversity.
The Minns Labor Government has today unveiled the nation's largest Australia Day program, delivering an action-packed, Australia Day celebration that reflects NSW's shared values and rich diversity.
From sunrise to nightfall, communities across NSW will come together with friends and families to enjoy a program filled with free events curated for all ages, and wrapping up with a special Australia Day Live concert at the Sydney Opera House forecourt.
Australia Day Live will feature an all-star Aussie lineup, including Cody Simpson, Kate Ceberano, William Barton and Jude York, alongside supergroup The Fabulous Caprettos, composed of Wendy Matthews, Rai Thistlethwayte, Dave Gleeson and Joe Camilleri.
The concert will include a tribute to the families and communities affected by the terror attack in Bondi last month and a performance by Sydney based band SHIR - Australian Jewish Music Festival, who performed their moving rendition of I Am Australian at the Bondi vigil last month.
The concert will feature a unique fireworks display and a spectacular aerial show over Circular Quay, delivering a memorable celebration for locals and visitors.
Sydney will mark the day with a series of major celebrations across the state, including via the Australia Day Ambassador Program featuring more than 100 inspirational Australians and a series of moving ceremonies in NSW.
From dawn and into the night on 26 January 2026, Circular Quay and Sydney Harbour will be the focal point of activity, with events across land, water and sky, designed for people of all ages.
- The Sydney Opera House sails will be illuminated for the Dawn reflection at sunrise with a striking artwork by Garry Purchase, a proud Aboriginal man, which will be followed by the WugulOra Morning Ceremony at Barangaroo's Walumil Lawns .
- The Harbourfest daytime program will be action packed with the Midday Salute honouring the contributions of Australian veterans through a tri-forces display, as well as Maritime Mayhem and the Harbour Parade, with vessels dressing to impress in a colourful display of national spirit, and the Australia Day Regatta.
- Surf Life Saving NSW will host its Fun in the Sun activation at First Fleet Lawn, offering free activities and games where children can engage with volunteers and learn how to stay safe in the water.
- The return of the popular Mega Kidz Zone at the Overseas Passenger Terminal will offer giant games, inflatables and arcade action for families.
Further announcements will be made ahead of Australia Day 2026, with full details available at australiaday.com.au.
Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:
"As we approach Australia Day, there is an opportunity to focus on what unites us rather than what divides us - a shared belief in freedom, respect and a fair go.
"This year, we are hosting the largest Australia Day celebration anywhere in the country, with free events from sunrise to nightfall that bring people together across Sydney Harbour and right around NSW.
"Throughout the day, Sydney Harbour will come alive with activities that celebrate the Australian spirit, showcase our vibrant multicultural communities, honour our First Nations history, and provide moments of reflection as we stand with those affected by the vile antisemitic Bondi terror attack."
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said:
"Australia Day is an opportunity to celebrate what unites us. Our shared values. Our diversity. The spirit of mateship that defines our nation and what makes us inherently Australian.
"At the end of 2025, we saw that spirit at its strongest, as communities came together to support one another in the wake of the tragic events at Bondi.
"Australia Day 2026 gives us the chance to come together again with care, respect and unity to reflect on who we are and what we stand for.
"The Minns Labor Government has delivered an action-packed program that's bigger than ever, with free events for all ages across the day, and a special Australia Day Live concert at the Sydney Opera House.
"Whether you're starting the day at Dawn Reflection, or firing up the BBQ, make the most of Australia Day 2026."
