City of Darwin is offering $50,000 in grants to support locally led events during NAIDOC Week 2026 (6-13 July 2026) and Reconciliation Week 2027 (27 May - 3 June 2027).
Grants of between $5,000 and $10,000 are available to eligible organisations, with applications open from Saturday 1 March to Monday 31 March 2026.
The funding aims to support initiatives that celebrate First Nations culture and achievements, strengthen community connection and encourage meaningful participation across the Darwin municipality.
NAIDOC Week celebrates the strength, culture and resilience of First Nations peoples. The 2026 theme, "50 Years of Deadly," honours the Elders, advocates, artists and communities whose leadership and determination have shaped the movement and continue to inspire generations.
Reconciliation Week 2027 provides an opportunity for the community, and all Australians, to build positive, respectful relationships and deepen understanding of our shared histories.
City of Darwin Lord Mayor Peter Styles is proud to continue supporting community-led initiatives that bring these important weeks to life.
"Darwin is shaped by the stories, cultures and contributions of First Nations people, and these grants support local leadership and ideas that create space for celebration, reflection and learning across our community.
"NAIDOC Week and Reconciliation Week are powerful reminders of how important it is to keep working together towards a stronger, more inclusive future, not just during these weeks, but all year round," he said.
City of Darwin first introduced the dedicated NAIDOC Week and Reconciliation Week funding program in 2024.
Since then, grants have supported a diverse range of initiatives, including Community Cultural Gatherings, Family Fun Days, NAIDOC Leadership and Career Breakfasts, First Nations Future Leaders Gatherings and the Deadly Cup Rugby League Carnival, delivered by organisations such as CAAPS, TRACKS Care, NAAFLS, Yili Rreung Housing Aboriginal Corporation, Deadly Vision Centre and Xhale Events.
Eligible applicants include:
First Nations organisations registered with the Northern Territory Indigenous Business Network or Supply Nation
Incorporated not-for-profit organisations
Community groups and individuals auspiced by an incorporated organisation
All funded activities must take place within the Darwin municipality and be inclusive and accessible to the broader community.
