NEWS AND EVENTS
8 March
International Women's Day 2024 focuses on the theme "Inspire Inclusion," encouraging understanding and valuing women's inclusion to foster a better world. It highlights collective efforts to create an inclusive environment for women of diverse backgrounds in all fields. For more details, visit https://www.internationalwomensday.com/
21 March
Close the Gap Day supports health equality for First Nations Peoples. On 21 March, consider hosting an activity at work, home, school or in your community to help make a difference. See the Closing the Gap website for ideas and to register: https://closethegap.org.au/close-the-gap-day/
18-24 March
Neurodiversity Celebration Week promotes understanding and respect for neurological differences like Dyslexia, Autism, and ADHD. It highlights the strengths of neurodivergent individuals and advocates for inclusive environments in schools, universities, and workplaces. For more details and to view the 2024 events schedule, visit https://www.neurodiversityweek.com/
31 March
Neighbours Every Day promotes practical and effective ways to help address loneliness across our communities. You can register an event to celebrate your neighbours and create belonging on the initiative’s website: https://neighbourseveryday.org/day-of-action/
2 April
World Autism Awareness Day raises awareness and promotes understanding of autism. This day emphasises the importance of inclusivity and support for individuals with autism, encouraging global engagement to celebrate their contributions and advocate for their rights.
24 May
Schizophrenia affects more than 20 million people around the world. This yearly event is about raising awareness about this mental health condition, and breaking down the stigma and prejudice surrounding it.
26 May
National Sorry Day, held every year on 26 May, remembers and acknowledges the mistreatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who were forcibly removed from their families and communities.
27 May to 3 June
The theme for National Reconciliation Week 2024 (#NRW2023), Be a Voice for Generations, encourages all Australians to be a voice for reconciliation every day – where we live, work and socialise. Learn more at https://www.reconciliation.org.au/our-work/national-reconciliation-week/
10 June to 16 June
Men's Health Week, celebrated from June 10-16, 2024, focuses on Men's Health Checks. This week emphasises the importance of keeping men and boys healthy through various activities and resources. Visit the https://www.amhf.org.au/men_s_health_week_australia for more information and to participate in events.
10 June to 16 June
Infant Mental Health Awareness Week 2024 highlights the importance of supporting infants' mental health and wellbeing. This week encourages discussions, awareness, and activities to promote early relationships and development. For more information, visit https://www.aaimh.org.au/events-and-training/2024-infant-mental-health-awareness-week/
7 July to 14 July
NAIDOC Week seeks to bring more recognition of the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander peoples. NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories, cultures achievements and continuing contributions to our country and society.
14 July
International Non-Binary People's Day celebrates the diversity and achievements of non-binary individuals. This day raises awareness about the challenges faced by non-binary people and promotes inclusivity and understanding.
15-21 July
Birth Trauma Awareness Week aims to increase awareness and support for those affected by birth trauma. This year's event will focus on the theme "Informed Consent" to highlight the experiences of parents and promote better care practices. For more information, visit https://birthtrauma.org.au/birth-trauma-awareness-week-2024/
4 August
National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Day, focuses on the theme "Strong in Culture, Stronger Together" in 2024. This day honors the strength children gain from their cultural connections. For more information and resources, visit https://www.snaicc.org.au/our-work/campaigns/childrens-day/
12-16 August
This initiative encourages schools and communities to implement evidence-based solutions to prevent bullying. The theme, "Everyone belongs," emphasises inclusion and respect. Schools, individuals, and community groups are invited to join and create a positive impact against bullying.
30 August
Wear it Purple is a youth-led volunteer organisation that strives to foster supportive, safe, empowering and inclusive environments for rainbow young people. Celebrate Wear it Purple Day on 25 August, so that “everybody has the right to be proud of who they are”. Check out the resources – from the colour run activity to downloading a Zoom background, it’s simple to get involved. Visit wearitpurple.org for more information
22 August
Fifty per cent of all Australians will be diagnosed with some form of cancer in their lifetime. Daffodil Day is a fundraising event run by the Cancer Council Australia and it is the biggest fundraising event on the Cancer Councils calendar. For more information, please visit daffodilday.com.au