Minister for Indigenous Australians
More than 5,000 people are expected to gather from tomorrow for the annual Barunga Festival, celebrating First Nations culture, connection and community.
The Albanese Labor Government is supporting the iconic festival with $250,000 in funding for this year's event, held in the remote Northern Territory community of Barunga, near Katherine.
As well as traditional cultural workshops, art and dance, there will be entertainment by leading First Nations musicians Troy Cassar-Daley, Jem Cassar-Daley, Frank Yamma and Emily Wurramara.
More than forty sporting teams from across the Territory will also compete in AFL, basketball and softball across the weekend.
Barunga is an important site in Australia's history, where the Barunga Statement was presented to then Prime Minister Bob Hawke in 1988.
Festivals like Barunga play an important role in building understanding and respect and supporting First Nations cultures and languages so they are strong and flourishing.
This year's festival is managed by the Bagala Aboriginal Corporation, representing the Jawoyn communities of Barunga and Beswick, ensuring local ownership and self-determination.
The 2026 Barunga Festival will be held between June 5 - 7.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy:
"The Albanese Government is pleased to support Barunga, one of Australia's most significant First Nations cultural festivals.
"Each year, the remote community of Barunga welcomes visitors from across the Northern Territory and the country to celebrate First Nations culture, music and sport.
"Festivals like Barunga help ensure First Nations cultures and languages remain strong."
Quotes attributable to Special Envoy for Remote Communities, Marion Scrymgour:
"Barunga is a special place for the NT and for the country.
"It's a place that brings people together and is a symbol of the resilience, strength and culture of our remote communities.
"Ours is a Federal Government which backs and supports our First Nations communities and works to celebrate their rich history and heritage."
Quotes attributable to Bagala Aboriginal Corporation CEO, Jarah Maraschio:
"The Bagala Aboriginal Corporation extends its thanks to the National Indigenous Australians Agency for their continued commitment to supporting remote sport, music and culture.
"This year, the Barunga Festival is proudly under the direction of its local Traditional Owners.
"The Bagala Aboriginal Corporation and its board are thrilled to welcome a record-breaking 5,000 ticket holders to the festival site in the Barunga community."
