National Reconciliation Week
National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
The week is observed from 27 May to 3 June. National Sorry Day is recognised on 26 May.
The NRW theme for 2025 is Bridging Now to Next.
For Charles Sturt University, the theme serves as a reminder of our progress and commitment to creating a university where everyone can succeed.
We believe First Nations outcomes are everyone's business and are committed to building a future where cultural safety and First Nations ways of knowing, being and doing are integrated throughout our entire institution. These are central components of our University Strategy and First Nations Strategy.
Show your support
Attend our consultation sessions
During NRW, staff, students and visitors to the University are invited to attend two online consultation sessions:
- Cultural Safety on Wednesday 28 May, 2pm-4pm
- First Nations Ways of Knowing, Being and Doing on Thursday 29 May, 10am-12pm
Both sessions will be facilitated by Professor Tony Dreise, the Pro Vice-Chancellor of First Nations Strategy at Charles Sturt. Feedback will help inform the University's development of a First Nations Ways of Knowing, Being and Doing Framework, and a Cultural Safety Framework.
Deepen your knowledge
Visit Reconciliation Australia to learn more about NRW and local activities in your area.
The First Nations Cultural Awareness Journey is a self-paced cultural competency program all Charles Sturt staff and students can enrol in for free at any time.
All research supervisors can also register to complete the short course: Supervising First Nations Candidates and on-Country Research.
Participate in local events
Staff and students are encouraged to get involved and attend some of the NRW events that are happening in the local community.
| Location | Details | Date and time |
|---|---|---|
| Albury-Wodonga | Albury City Council is holding a flag raising ceremony, followed by a morning tea at MAMA. | 10am Starts at QEII Square, Albury. |
| Bathurst | Bathurst Regional Council is hosting community walk/run. The event will include participation certificates, free BBQ lunch and service stalls. Visit the Bathurst Regional Council website for further information. | 10am Starts at Berry Park, Denison Bridge. |
| Canberra | Various NRW events are planned. Visit Reconciliation Australia's 2025 NRW Events Calendar for more information. | Varies. |
| Dubbo | Dubbo Aboriginal Medical Service is holding its annual Sorry Day event. Please visit the CTG Aboriginal Health Facebook page for details. | 10am - 2pm Victoria Park Rotunda, Dubbo. |
| Orange | Orange City Council is hosting a Reconciliation Walk from the Charles Sturt University campus to the CBD. All staff and students are invited to attend the Welcome and Smoking Ceremony at our Yarning Circle at 10am. To register for the walk or for more information, please call Rebecca Cox at Orange City Council on 6393 8623. | 10am Walk starts at Charles Sturt University, on the lawn near car park 3, Orange. |
| Port Macquarie | The Port Macquarie Astronomical Observatory is hosting a Sky Stories art exhibition. The exhibition will showcase works by First Nations artists exploring ancient knowledge of the night sky. Please contact the Observatory for details. | Tuesday 27 May - Tuesday 3 June. The Port Macquarie Astronomical Observatory, Rotary Park. |
| Wagga Wagga | Charles Sturt University is hosting a Cultural Reflection Walk guided by Uncle Lloyd Dolan. Book your spot now as places are limited. Wagga Wagga City Council invites you to commemorate National Sorry Day by gathering together at the Sorry Day Rock. More details can be found on the Wagga Wagga City Council website. | 11am - 12pm Starts at Car park 40 (behind Murrumbidgee Village), Charles Sturt, Wagga Wagga. 10am - 12pm Sorry Rock, off Burns Way, Wagga Wagga. |