Anniversary of the ACT’s First Reconciliation Day Public Holiday

28 May

On 28 May 2018, the Australian Capital Territory held its first Reconciliation Day public holiday. It was the first state or territory in Australia to establish a public holiday dedicated to reconciliation. The occasion created time for the broader community to learn about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, reflect on relationships and participate in shared activities.

This entry marks the anniversary of the inaugural holiday. The public holiday’s date changes from year to year, so 28 May should not be used as a substitute for checking the ACT’s current holiday calendar.

Making time for reconciliation

The ACT Government’s account of the first holiday describes a Reconciliation in the Park festival and support for community-led activities, including cultural tours, film screenings and sporting events. The emphasis was on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, contributions and resilience, alongside greater community understanding.

Setting aside a public holiday gives reconciliation a visible place in everyday civic life. It provides an opportunity for people who may not otherwise attend a learning activity to participate. Its value, however, depends on the relationships and actions that continue beyond the day itself.

More than an annual event

Reconciliation can involve difficult questions about history, discrimination, rights and whose voices shape decisions. Celebrating culture and recognising achievement can sit alongside truthful discussion of injustice. Neither should be used to avoid the other.

A dedicated day is not evidence that these questions have been resolved. It can instead become a yearly point for considering what has changed, what commitments remain unfinished and whether Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are meaningfully involved in decisions that affect them.

Taking part thoughtfully

Choose activities led or endorsed by local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, follow the hosts’ guidance and recognise that participation may mean listening rather than speaking. Schools and workplaces can connect the anniversary to practical commitments throughout the year, rather than relying on a single celebration.

When sharing information, distinguish this historical anniversary from the dates of National Reconciliation Week and the public holiday in the year being discussed. Clear dates help people understand both the milestone and the opportunities to participate now.

Sources and further learning

ACT Budget 2018–19: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Canberrans records the first holiday and associated activities.

Parliamentary Library: Voice, Treaty, Truth chronology records its place in Australia’s reconciliation history.

Our related products and resources

Finding Our Heart by Thomas Mayor, illustrated by Blak Douglas, introduces the Uluru Statement from the Heart. Its connection is thematic: listening, understanding and civic dialogue. It is not a history of the ACT’s Reconciliation Day holiday.