Australia launches NAIDOC Week in Port Moresby

The Australian High Commission launched the National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) Week on Monday 6 July in Port Moresby.

NAIDOC Week is celebrated in Australia each year in July. It’s an opportunity to showcase the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The launch featured Indigenous sport ambassador and member of the women’s rugby sevens team to the Pacific Games, Ms Tanisha Stanton. Ms Stanton is part of the Gamilaroi people which extends from central north-west New South Wales to south-west Queensland.

Australia’s High Commissioner to PNG Ms Deborah Stokes said: “NAIDOC Week is a time to acknowledge our Indigenous artists, scholars, sportspeople, elders, community members and more. We are delighted to have Tanisha with us and to hear about her journey as an elite athlete.”

“The Australian Government is committed to better engagement with its Indigenous peoples to ensure policies and programmes improve their lives and opportunities,” Ms Stokes said.

“We proudly highlight and recognise the role they have played in shaping Australia’s identity and pause to reflect on their sacrifice. We celebrate and honour their priceless contribution to our nation,” Ms Stokes said.

This year’s NAIDOC theme is: We all Stand on Sacred Ground: Learn, Respect and Celebrate highlights the strong spiritual and cultural connection by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to the land and sea.

Ms Stanton is a well-rounded athlete. Having competed in netball, rugby league and rugby union from a young age, she has built a solid reputation as a professional sportsperson.

“I’m honoured to represent my country as an Indigenous Australian in the Pacific Games. I hope that my participation will inspire other Indigenous peoples to use every opportunity, whether it be sports or education to reach their potential in life.”