Discover days and dates that lead inclusivity and foster dialogue. Join in thought-provoking discussions to mark the importance of these times within our communities. Together, let's build a campus where everyone feels valued and empowered. Explore the upcoming celebrations and acknowledgments below and note the dates significant to you. Be part of the change towards a more inclusive society.
Inclusion calendar 2023
Significant days we recognise with our community
UOW’s EDI calendar captures most dates of significance, but we acknowledge that there may be other dates to include. Please email the EDI-Team@uow.edu.au if there’s something you’d like to add.
World Braille Day
Wednesday, 4 January, 2023
World Braille Day is observed to raise awareness of the importance of braille as a means of communication for blind and partially sighted people. Braille is essential in the context of education, freedom of expression and opinion, as well as social inclusion.
Epiphany
Friday, 6 January, 2023
Epiphany is a Christian feast day that commemorates the visit of the Magi to the baby Jesus and the manifestation of Jesus as the Son of God.
Orthodox Christmas
Thursday, 7 January, 2023
Orthodox Christmas marks the birth of Jesus Christ according to the Julian calendar observed by some Eastern Orthodox Churches.
World Religion Day
Sunday, 15 January, 2023
The aim of World Religion Day (which takes place on the third Sunday of January each year) is to promote understanding and peace between all religions, encouraging people to learn about other faiths and their followers.
Orthodox Epiphany
Thursday, 19 January, 2023
Occurring on 19 January 19, this feast commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River and the revelation of the Holy Trinity.
Lunar New Year
Sunday, 22 January, 2023
The Lunar New Year is celebrated around the world by those who follow the lunisolar calendar, including in countries such as China, Korea, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Tibet, Mongolia and Indonesia, as well as other communities around the world. 22 January marks the start of the Year of the Rabbit.
International Day of Education
Tuesday, 24 January, 2023
The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 24 January as International Day of Education. The role of education in breaking boundaries between cultures and countries, and maintaining peace and equality, is celebrated noting that education is a human right, a public good and a public responsibility.
Australia Day / Survival Day
Thursday, 26 January, 2023
26th of January is the official national day of Australia. To Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, this day marks the commemoration of a deep loss – loss of their sovereign rights to their land, loss of family, loss of the right to practice their culture. This date also provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with the opportunity to reflect on the survival of the oldest living culture in the world.
Holocaust Remembrance Day
Friday, 27 January, 2023
International Day of Commemoration (Holocaust Remembrance Day) pays tribute to the memory of the victims of the Holocaust. The date marks the anniversary of the liberation of the nazi concentration and extermination camp of Auschwitz-Birkenau by Soviet troops on 27 January 1945. The day reaffirms an unwavering commitment to counter antisemitism, racism, and other forms of intolerance that may lead to group-targeted violence.
Freedom Rides 1965
Sunday, 12 February, 2023
In 1965, a group of students from the University of Sydney drew national and international attention to the appalling living conditions of Aboriginal people and the racism that was rife in New South Wales country towns. Known as the Freedom Ride, this 15-day bus journey through regional New South Wales would become a defining moment in Australian activism.
International Day of Women and Girls in Science
Saturday, 11 February, 2023
In order to achieve full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls, and further achieve gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, the United Nations General Assembly declared 11 February as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science in 2015.
Anniversary of the National Apology
Monday, 13 February, 2023
National Apology Day is commemorated annually on 13 February. On this day in 2008, former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd apologised on behalf of the nation for past laws, policies and practices that have impacted upon Australia’s First Nations Peoples, particularly members of the Stolen Generations. The Apology is now considered a defining moment in Australian history.
International Mother Language Day
Thursday, 21 February, 2023
International Mother Language Day recognises that languages and multilingualism can advance inclusion, and the Sustainable Development Goals’ focus on leaving no one behind. UNESCO encourages and promotes multilingual education based on mother tongue or first language.
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade (SGLMG)
Saturday, 25 February, 2023
The LGBTIQA+ event in Sydney, attended by hundreds of thousands of people from around Australia and overseas is one of the largest such festivals in the world. SGLMG was built on the foundations laid by early community activists who fought for LGBTQIA+ rights in a time of wide-spread, institutionalised oppression and discrimination.
Zero Discrimination Day
Wednesday, 1 March, 2023
On Zero Discrimination Day we celebrate the right of everyone to live a full and productive life—and live it with dignity. Zero Discrimination Day highlights how people can become informed about and promote inclusion, compassion, peace and, above all, a movement for change. Zero Discrimination Day is helping to create a global movement of solidarity to end all forms of discrimination.
International Wheelchair Day
Wednesday, 1 March, 2023
International Wheelchair Day is held annually on 1 March and is a day of events and activities which take place around the world when wheelchair users celebrate the positive impact a wheelchair has on their lives.
Purim (Feast of Lots)
Monday, 6 March to 7 March, 2023
Purim is a Jewish holiday celebrating the deliverance of the Jewish people from a plot to exterminate them, as recorded in the Book of Esther.
Holla Mohalla
Wednesday, 8 March, 2023
Holla Mohalla is a Sikh festival that follows Holi, featuring martial arts displays, music, and poetry to promote valour and courage.
Holi Festival
Wednesday, 8 March, 2023
This great Indian festival is observed at the end of the winters in the month of March after the full Moon
Holi, also known as the Festival of Colours, the Festival of Spring, and the Festival of Love, is an ancient Hindu religious festival and one of the most popular festivals in Hinduism. It celebrates the eternal and divine love of Radha Krishna.
International Women's Day
Wednesday, 8 March, 2023
Every year, International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated around the world on 8 March. International Women’s Day is celebrated in many countries around the world and is a day when all women are recognised for their achievements.
Sikh New Year / Vaisakhi
Tuesday, 14 March, 2023
Vaisakhi is a significant day for Sikhs, as it marks the formation of the Khalsa and the Sikh New Year.
National Close the Gap Day
Thursday, 16 March, 2023
In 2006, more than 40 national organisations came together to form Close the Gap ‐ Australia’s largest ever campaign to improve the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Every year, Australians are encouraged to hold their own event on National Close the Gap Day to raise awareness about the life expectancy gap between Indigenous and nonIndigenous Australians. Since 2006, the Close the Gap campaign has achieved an enormous amount through community support.
St Patrick’s Day
Friday, 17 March, 2023
The feast day of St. Patrick, a patron saint of Ireland. Originally celebrated with religious feasts and services, St. Patrick's Day has become a secular celebration of Irish culture when it reached the United States alongside Irish immigrants.
Harmony Week
Monday, 20 March, 2023
It is a time to celebrate Australian multiculturalism, and the successful integration of migrants into our community. Australia is one of the most successful multicultural countries in the world and we should celebrate this and work to maintain it. Harmony Week is about inclusiveness, respect and belonging for all Australians, regardless of cultural or linguistic background, united by a set of core Australian values.
International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
Tuesday, 21 March, 2023
On this day in 1960, police opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration in Sharpeville, South Africa, against the apartheid “pass laws”. Proclaiming the Day in 1966, the UN General Assembly called on the international community to redouble its efforts to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination.
World Down Syndrome Day
Tuesday, 21 March, 2023
World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is a global awareness day which has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012.
The date for WDSD being the 21st day of the 3rd month, was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome.
Ramadan
Wednesday, 22 March, 2023
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide. The month-long religious holiday is a time of self-reflection and strengthening their relationship with God. Ramadan is dictated by the lunar cycle, beginning and ending with a crescent moon. The religious holiday involves fasting, praying and being around loved ones.
Transgender Day of Visibility
Friday, 31 March, 2023
Trans Day of Visibility is an annual international celebration of trans pride and awareness, recognising trans and gender diverse experiences and achievements. Events on 31 March involved celebrating with gender diverse people all around Australia by sharing stories, starting conversations, and attending events.
Palm Sunday
Sunday, 2 April, 2023
Palm Sunday, the Sunday before Easter Sunday and the start of Holy Week for Christians, is a feast day commemorating Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem on a Donkey (symbolizing peace versus a horse which symbolized war).
World Autism Day
Sunday, 2 April, 2023
World Autism Day is celebrated annually and aims to spread awareness about autism and encourage its acceptance.
Passover
Wednesday, 5 April to Saturday, 13 April, 2023
Passover is a major Jewish holiday, that celebrates the Biblical story of the Israelites' escape from slavery in Egypt.
International Asexuality Day
Thursday, 6 April, 2023
International Asexuality Day is an annual event celebrated on April 6 to recognise and celebrate asexuality and the asexual community. The day is intended to create awareness and understanding of the full asexual spectrum.
Easter
Friday, 7 April to Monday, 11 April, 2023
Easter is a Christian festival and cultural holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter-observing Christians refer to the week before Easter as Holy Week, which begins on Palm Sunday (marking the entrance of Jesus in Jerusalem), includes Spy Wednesday (on which the betrayal of Jesus is mourned), and contains the days of the Easter Triduum including Maundy Thursday, commemorating the Maundy and Last Supper, as well as Good Friday, commemorating the crucifixion and death of Jesus.
- Palm Sunday: marking the entrance of Jesus in Jerusalem (Sunday before Easter)
- Good Friday: commemorating the crucifixion and death of Jesus
- Easter Sunday: celebrating the resurrection of Jesus
- Easter Monday: marking the day after Jesus rose from the dead
World Health Day
Friday, 7 April, 2023
World Health Day is celebrated annually and each year draws attention to a specific health topic of concern to people all over the world. This year the World Health Organisation will observe the 75th anniversary of this day.
Orthodox Easter
Sunday, 16 April, 2023
Orthodox Easter takes place between April 4 and May 8, following the first full moon after Passover. Orthodox Easter always falls after the Jewish celebration of Passover, because, according to the New Testament, the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ took place after he entered Jerusalem to celebrate Passover.
Ridvan (Great Month) (20 April – 2 May))
Thursday, 20 April to Tuesday, 2 May, 2023
Ridvan is the most important Baha'i festival, commemorating the twelve days when Baha'u'llah, the founder of the Baha'i Faith, declared his mission.
Eid al Fitr (end of Ramadan)
Friday, 21 April to Saturday, 22 April, 2023
As the fasting month of Ramadan comes to an end, Muslims around the world are preparing for Eid al-Fitr, the “festival of breaking the fast”.
Lesbian Visibility Week
Monday, 24 April, 2023
Lesbian Visibility Week is to celebrate lesbians and show solidarity with all LGBTQI women and non-binary people.
ANZAC Day
Tuesday, 25 April, 2023
On 25 of April 1915, Australian and New Zealand soldiers formed part of the allied expedition that set out to capture the Gallipoli peninsula. These became known as ANZACs and the pride they took in that name continues to this day.
International Guide Dog Day
Wednesday, 26 April, 2023
International Guide Dog Day celebrates the important role Guide Dogs play in supporting people all around the world with low vision or blindness to achieve their goals and live independently. It marks the establishment of the International Federation of Guide Dog Associations on 26 April 1989.
World Day of Safety and Health at Work
Friday, 28 April, 2023
The annual World Day for Safety and Health at Work promotes the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases globally. It is an awareness-raising campaign intended to focus international attention on the magnitude of the problem and on how promoting and creating a safe and health culture can help reduce the number of work-related deaths and injuries.
Ridvan (Great Month) (20 April – 2 May))
Thursday, 20 April to Tuesday, 2 May, 2023
Ridvan is the most important Baha'i festival, commemorating the twelve days when Baha'u'llah, the founder of the Baha'i Faith, declared his mission.
International Family Equality (Family Pride) Day
Sunday, 7 May, 2023
The IFED is an official LGBT awareness day. Since 2012, this day marks the celebration of LGBTQ diverse families globally.
International Women in Mathematics Day
Friday, 12 May, 2023
The goal of the day is to inspire women everywhere to celebrate their achievements in mathematics, and to encourage an open, welcoming and inclusive work environment for everybody.
International Day of Families
Monday, 15 May, 2023
The International Day of Families observance is to raise awareness of the impact of demographic trends on families. The UN uses the day to promote awareness of the issues that surround families and increase knowledge of the social, demographic, and economic factors that affect families.
International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT)
Wednesday, 17 May, 2023
IDAHOBIT was started on May 17 1990 when the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from the Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems. This day aims to help educate people and raise awareness for the work still needed to combat discrimination.
Ascension of Christ
Thursday, 18 May, 2023
Ascension Day celebrates the ascension of Jesus Christ to heaven, 40 days after his resurrection.
Global Accessibility Awareness Day
Thursday, 18 May, 2023
Global Accessibility Awareness Day is an awareness day focusing on digital access and inclusion for the more than one billion people who live with disabilities or impairments. It is marked annually on the third Thursday of May.
World Day for Cultural Diversity For Dialogue and Development
Sunday, 21 May, 2023
Held every year on 21 May, UNESCO leads the celebration of World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development highlighting not only the richness of the world’s cultures, but also the essential role of intercultural dialogue for achieving peace and sustainable development.
Shavuot
Thursday, 25 May to Saturday, 27 May, 2023
Shavuot, commonly known as the Feast of Weeks, is a major Jewish holiday, that celebrates the giving of the Torah on Mount Sinai as well as the grain harvest for the summer. The two-day holiday, begins at sundown following the 5th of Sivan and lasts until nightfall of the 7th of Sivan (May 25-27, 2023). In Israel it is a one-day holiday, ending at nightfall of the 6th of Sivan.
National Sorry Day
Thursday, 26 May, 2023
Every year on 26 May, National Sorry Day remembers and acknowledges the mistreatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who were forcibly removed from their families and communities, which we now know as ‘The Stolen Generations’.
Vesak (Buddha Day)
Thursday, 26 May, to 2 June, 2023
Vesak is the most significant Buddhist festival, celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha.
Anniversary of the 1967 Referendum
Saturday, 27 May, 2023
On 27 May 1967, Australians voted to change the Constitution so that like all other Australians, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples would be counted as part of the population and the Commonwealth would be able to make laws for them. A resounding 90.77 per cent said ‘Yes’ and every single state and territory had a majority result for the ‘Yes’ vote. It was one of the most successful national campaigns in Australia’s history.
National Reconciliation Week
Saturday, 27 May, 2023
National Reconciliation Week offers people across Australia the opportunity to focus on reconciliation, to hear about the cultures and histories of Australia's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and to explore new and better ways of meeting challenges in our communities.
National Reconciliation Week at UOW
- National Reconciliation Community Day
- National Reconciliation Week, Session 1
- National Reconciliation Week - Session 2
- National Reconciliation Week - Session 3
Pentecost
Sunday, 28 May, 2023
Pentecost is a Christian holiday that commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles of Jesus.
Ascension of Baha’u’llah
Sunday, 28 May to Monday, 29 May, 2023
This Baha'i holiday marks the ascension of Baha'u'llah, the founder of the Baha'i Faith, to the spiritual realm.
Vesak (Buddha Day)
Thursday, 26 May, to 2 June, 2023
Vesak is the most significant Buddhist festival, celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha.
Global Day of Parents
Thursday, 1 June, 2023
Designated by the General Assembly in 2012, Global Day of Parents provides an opportunity to appreciate all parents for their "selfless commitment to children and their lifelong sacrifice towards nurturing this relationship."
Pride Month
Thursday, 1 June, 2023
Pride Month commemorates years of struggle for civil rights and the ongoing pursuit of equal justice under the law for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community, as well as the accomplishments of LGBTQ individuals.
Mabo Day
Saturday, 3 June, 2023
Mabo Day marks the anniversary of the High Court of Australia’s judgement in 1992 in the Mabo case. This is a day of particular significance for Torres Strait Islander Australians. Eddie ‘Koiki’ Mabo’s name is synonymous with native title rights. His story began in May 1982 when he and fellow Murray (Mer) Islanders David Passi, Sam Passi, James Rice and Celuia Salee instituted a claim in the High Court for native title to the Murray (Mer) Islands in the Torres Strait. The decision overturned a legal fiction that Australia was terra nullius (a land belonging to no one) at the time of British colonisation.
Flexible Work Day
Saturday, 10 June, 2023
Wednesday 10 June is recognised as World Flexible Working Day, a day for businesses to celebrate and showcase the benefits of flexible work for individuals and organisations.
The Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983 commenced operation
Saturday, 10 June, 2023
The Act was intended to partially compensate Aboriginal people for loss of land through invasion, through allocation of a proportion of land tax to communities through land councils. This is especially important in intensively occupied NSW. The Act saw the establishment of NSW Land Councils system.
Dharma Day
Tuesday, 13 June, 2023
Dharma Day, also known as Asalha Puja, is a Buddhist holiday commemorating the Buddha's first sermon.
Refugee Week
Sunday, 18 June, 2023
Refugee Week aims to inform the public about refugees and celebrate positive contributions made by refugees to Australian society.
World Refugee Day
Tuesday, 20 June, 2023
World Refugee Day is an international day designated by the United Nations to honour refugees around the globe. It falls each year on June 20 and celebrates the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home country to escape conflict or persecution. World Refugee Day is an occasion to build empathy and understanding for their plight and to recognize their resilience in rebuilding their lives.
Dragon Boat Festival
Thursday, 22 June, 2023
Celebrated to commemorate the eatdh of Qu Yuan, a famous Chinese poet and minister known for his patriotism and contributions to classical poetry, who eventually became a national hero.
International Women in Engineering Day
Friday, 23 June, 2023
International Women in Engineering Day is celebrated on June 23 every year around the world, to honor women in the field of engineering. It focuses on raising the profile of women who are changing the field of engineering one degree at a time.
Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca)
Monday, 26 June, to Saturday, 1 July, 2023
Hajj is the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and it is obligatory for all Muslims who can afford to undertake it.
Eid al Adha (Feast of Sacrifice)
Wednesday, 28 June, to 2 July, 2023
Eid al-Adha is an Islamic holiday that commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.
Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca)
Monday, 26 June, to Saturday, 1 July, 2023
Hajj is the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and it is obligatory for all Muslims who can afford to undertake it.
Eid al Adha (Feast of Sacrifice)
Wednesday, 28 June, to 2 July, 2023
Eid al-Adha is an Islamic holiday that commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.
Coming of the Light Festival
Saturday, 1 July, 2023
The 'Coming of the Light' is a holiday celebrated annually by Torres Strait Island people on 1 July. The day recognises the point in time when Christianity came to the Torres Strait and the acceptance of Christianity (the Light).
National NAIDOC Week
Sunday, 2 July, 2023
Each year themes are created to celebrate and recognise First Nation Peoples history, achievements and culture that have been shared for over 65,000 years. This is a great week for non-indigenous people to participate, learn and share with First Nation Peoples about the oldest surviving culture in the world. The 2023 theme is For Our Elders.
International Non-Binary People's Day
Friday, 14 July, 2023
It aims to celebrate those who are non-binary, the rich diversity of gender and celebrate people who do not fit into a binary gender.
World Youth Skills Day
Saturday, 15 July, 2023
World Youth Skills Day celebrates the strategic importance of equipping young people with skills for employment, decent work and entrepreneurship.
Al Hijri (Islamic Lunar New Year)
Wednesday, 19 July, 2023
Al-Hijri marks the Islamic New Year based on the lunar calendar.
Ashura (Day of Commemoration)
Wednesday, 27 July, to Friday, 28 July, 2023
Ashura is a significant day of remembrance for Muslims, commemorating various events, including the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad.
National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Day
Friday, 4 August, 2023
Children’s Day is a time Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and communities and all Australians, celebrate the strengths and culture of children. It is an opportunity for us to show our support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, as well as learn about the crucial impact that culture, family and community play in the life of every Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander child.
International Day of the World's Indigenous People
Wednesday, 9 August, 2023
The United Nations’ (UN) International Day of the World's Indigenous People was first proclaimed by the General Assembly in December 1994 and is observed on 9 August each year to promote and protect the rights of the world’s indigenous population. This event also recognises the achievements and contributions that indigenous people make to improve world issues such as environmental protection.
National Science Week
Saturday, 12 August, 2023
National Science Week is Australia’s annual celebration of science and technology. Running each year in August, it features more than 1000 events around Australia, including those delivered by universities, schools, research institutions, libraries, museums and science centres.
National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence
Friday, 18 August, 2023
The National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence (NDA) is an annual event that supports schools to work with their school communities to find practical and lasting solutions to bullying and violence.
Australian South Sea Islanders National Day of Recognition
Friday, 25 August, 2023
This day acknowledges the contributions and history of Australian South Sea Islanders, who are descendants of laborers brought from the Pacific Islands to work in Australia during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Wear it Purple Day
Friday, 25 August, 2023
Wear it Purple was founded in 2010 in response to global stories of real teenagers, real heartache and their very real responses. In 2010, several rainbow young people took their own lives following bullying and harassment resulting from the lack of acceptance of their sexuality or gender identity.
International Day for People of African Descent
Thursday, 31 August, 2023
International Day for People of African Descent honours the contributions of poeple of African descent, celebrates the richness of their diverse cultures, promotes respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and reinforces commitments to end racism and all forms of racial discrimination.
National Child Protection Week
Monday, 4 September, 2023
NCPW aims to engage, educate and empower Australians to understand the complexity of child abuse and neglect and work together to prevent it. The campaign does this through sharing evidence through webinars and events as well as creating resources in order to empower communities to have conversations regarding children’s safety and wellbeing.
Social Sciences Week
Monday, 4 September, 2023
Social Sciences Week is a week-long series of events held across Australia each September offering insight into the impact of the social sciences on our lives. The social sciences are key to understanding humanity, society and the institutions which govern our daily lives.
Krishna Janmashtami (Birthday of Lord Krishna)
Thursday, 7 September, 2023
Krishna Janmashtami celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism.
National Indigenous Literacy Day
Thursday, 7 September, 2023
Taking place on the first Wednesday of September each year, the event raises awareness of the educational struggles facing many Indigenous groups in Australia, while also serving as a fundraiser to collect literary resources for children living in more isolated areas of the country. Providing more than just books, Indigenous Literacy Day celebrates Aboriginal culture and the stories and languages that helped to build the country we know today. Indigenous literacy is important not just for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, but for everyone who believes in preserving our unique heritage and creating opportunities for fellow Australians.
World Suicide Prevention Day
Sunday, 10 September, 2023
The day is observed by more than 60 countries, with the aim of promoting stigma reduction, policy change, help seeking, and remembering those we have lost to suicide, those who have attempted suicide, and those who are living with the grief of losing someone.
Anniversary of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People
Wednesday, 13 September, 2023
The Declaration establishes a universal framework of minimum standards of fair treatment of Indigenous peoples as they relate to their vast circumstances. The UNDRIP was brought to General Assembly on 13 September 2007. It was passed by a majority of 144 states in favour, 4 votes against (Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United States) and 11 abstentions. It was endorsed by Australia on 3 April 2009.
R U OK? Day
Thursday, 14 September, 2023
This day is to remind Australians that every day is the day to ask, ‘are you OK?’ and start a meaningful conversation whenever they spot the signs that someone they care about might be struggling with life.
Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year)
Friday, 15 September to Sunday, 17 September, 2023
Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year, marked by prayer, reflection, and the sounding of the shofar.
It is the anniversary of the creation of Adam and Eve, and a day of judgment and coronation of God as king.
Australian Citizenship Day
Sunday, 17 September, 2023
Australian Citizenship Day is an opportunity for all Australian citizens, whether by birth or by choice, to reflect on the meaning and importance of their citizenship and recognise the responsibilities and privileges we have as citizens.
International Equal Pay Day
Monday, 18 September, 2023
This day recognises not only the pay gap between men and women working in equivalent roles, but also draws attention to the persistent gaps between how traditional “male” and “female” work is valued.
International Day of Peace
Thursday, 21 September, 2023
The UN General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire. the 2023 International Day of Peace theme is Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for the #GlobalGoals.
Bisexual Visibility Day
Saturday, 23 September, 2023
Bisexual Visibility Day has been marked each year on 23 September since 1999 and is a day to acknowledge and increase the visibility and inclusion of bisexual people. This is not only important in achieving diversity and inclusivity in workplaces, but necessary for the overall health and wellbeing of the bisexual community.
International Day of Sign Languages
Saturday, 23 September, 2023
The International Day of Sign Languages is a unique opportunity to support and protect the linguistic identity and cultural diversity of all deaf people and other sign language users.
Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement)
Monday, 24 September to Tuesday, 25 September, 2023
Yom Kippur is the holiest day in Judaism, a day of fasting and repentance.
Milad Un Nabi (Mawlid)
Tuesday, 26 September, 2023
Celebrated by millions of Muslims around the world, Milad un Nabi (Mawlid) marks the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday. There are diverse beliefs within the Mulsim community about how Muhammad’s birthday should be commemorated.
Mid-Autumn Festival
Friday, 29 September, 2023
The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival or Mooncake Festival, is a traditional festival celebrated in Chinese culture. Similar holidays are celebrated in Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and other countries in East and Southeast Asia.
AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) Awareness Month
1-31 October, 2023
International AAC Awareness Month raises awareness of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and informs the public about the many ways in which people communicate using communication devices. The Month is a chance to highlight the different ways people communicate and how we can all work together to create accessible communication.
International Day for Older Persons
Sunday, 1 October, 2023
This day was established in 1991 by the United Nations and aims to raise awareness of the impact of an ageing population and the need to ensure people can grow old with dignity.
Mental Health Month
Sunday, 1 October, 2023
Mental Health Month is celebrated each year in the month of October in NSW. This month encourages all of us to think about our mental health and wellbeing, regardless of whether we may have a lived experience of mental illness or not It also gives us the opportunity to understand the importance of good mental health in our everyday lives and encourages help seeking behaviours when needed.
Gandhi Jayanti
Monday, 2 October, 2023
Gandhi Jayanti is an event celebrated in India to mark the birthday of famous freedom fighter, Mahatma Gandhi. It is celebrated annually on 2 October, and is one of the three national holidays of India.
International Lesbian Day
Sunday, 8 October, 2023
A day for lesbians the world over to come together to celebrate lesbian history, diversity, and culture. Recognised annually, the day gives an opportunity for women, families, and friends to connect, celebrate and raise awareness about the importance of community.
World Mental Health Day
Tuesday, 10 October, 2023
World Mental Health Day is marked every year on October 10 to raise awareness about mental health around the world and to mobilize efforts to support those experiencing mental health issues.
National Coming Out Day
Wednesday, 11 October, 2023
National Coming Out Day is an annual celebration that takes place on 11 October, the anniversary of the 1987 National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. The days honours and celebrates the bravery of LGBTIQ+ people who come out and live openly, recognising that in doing so, many LGBTIQ+ people around the world still face discrimination and threats to their personal safety.
Bandi Chhor Divas
Thursday, 12 October, 2023
Bandi chhor Divas is a day on which Guru Hargobind Sahib was released with 52 Kings from Gwalior Prison. The word "Bandi" means "imprisoned", "Chhor" means "release" and "Divas" means "day" and together "Bandi Chhor Divas" means Prisoner Release Day. It is celebrate with great joy as it was a time when "right" prevailed over "wrong".
Ada Lovelace Day
Friday, 13 October, 2023
Ada Lovelace Day on October 13 highlights the achievements of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Launched in 2009 as a celebration of women in science, the event promotes programs that encourage girls and women to pursue careers in STEM.
National Carers Week (15 - 20 October)
Sunday, 15 October to Friday, 20 October, 2023
National Carers Week is an opportunity to recognise, celebrate and raise awareness about Australia's 2.65 million carers, and it is an opportunity to raise community awareness among all Australians about the diversity of carers and their caring roles.
Navaratri (Victory of Good over Evil)
Sunday, 15 October to Tuesday, 24 October, 2023
Navaratri is a Hindu festival celebrated with vibrant music and dance, honouring the divine feminine and commemorating the victory of good over evil.
International Pronouns Day
Wednesday, 18 October, 2023
International Pronouns Day seeks to make respecting, sharing, and educating about personal pronouns commonplace. Referring to people by the pronouns they determine for themselves is basic to human dignity. Being referred to by the wrong pronouns particularly affects transgender and gender nonconforming people. Together, we can transform society to celebrate people’s multiple, intersecting identities.
Vijayadashami (Dussehra)
Tuesday, 24 October, 2023
Dussehra is a major Hindu festival and marks the triumph of good over evil. The festival has different names in different parts of India, including Vijaydashami, Dasara or Dashain and lasts for ten days.
Intersex Awareness Day
Thursday, 26 October, 2023
Intersex awareness day is designed to highlight the human rights issues facing intersex people globally, and to encourage visibility, education and inclusion of people with intersex variation.
All Saints Day
Wednesday, 1 November, 2023
All Saints Day is a Christian holiday that honors all the saints, known and unknown.
International Day of the Girl
Saturday, 11 November, 2023
The International Day of the Girl Child focuses attention on the need to address the challenges girls face and to promote girls’ empowerment and the fulfilment of their human rights.
Remembrance Day
Saturday, 11 November, 2023
Remembrance Day is a memorial day observed in Commonwealth member states since the end of the First World War to honour armed forces members who have died in the line of duty.
Diwali
Sunday, 12 November, 2023
Diwali takes place annually and lasts for five days, marking the start of the Hindu New Year. The exact dates change each year and are determined by the position of the moon – but it usually falls between October and November.
Transgender Awareness Week
Monday, 13 November, 2023
Transgender Awareness Week is a week when transgender people and their allies take action to bring attention to the community by educating the public about who transgender people are, sharing stories and experiences, and advancing advocacy around the issues of prejudice, discrimination, and violence that affect the transgender community.
International Day for Tolerance
Thursday, 16 November, 2023
International Day for Tolerance was created by the United Nations to help foster mutual understanding among cultures and peoples. UNESCO's 1995 Declaration of Principles on Tolerance state "Tolerance is respect, acceptance and appreciation of the rich diversity of our world's cultures, our forms of expression and ways of being human".
International Men's Day
Sunday, 19 November, 2023
This day aims to promote positive male role models, to celebrate men’s positive contributions to society, to focus on men’s health and wellbeing, to highlight discrimination against men, and to improve gender relations and promote gender equality.
Transgender Day of Remembrance
Monday, 20 November, 2023
Trans Day of Remembrance (TDOR) is an annual observance that honours the memory of the trans lives lost to acts of transphobia and discrimination. It is a day of gathering, togetherness, and community solidarity, to remember those lost, celebrate strength in the face of adversity, and commit to fighting transphobia to create a better, safer, and more inclusive world for everyone.
International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women
Saturday, 25 November, 2023
International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women aims to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls around the world, calling for global action to increase awareness, promote advocacy and create opportunities for discussion on challenges and solutions.
Ascension of Abdu’l Baha
Monday, 27 November to Tuesday, 28 November, 2023
This Baha'i holiday commemorates the ascension of Abdu'l-Baha, the son of Baha'u'llah and a central figure in the Baha'i Faith.
World AIDS Day
Friday, 1 December, 2023
World AIDS Day was the first ever global health day and the first one was held in 1988. World AIDS Day is recognised and observed by millions of people in more than 190 countries around the world as a day to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS.
International Day of People with Disabilities
Sunday, 3 December, 2023
The annual observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) on 3 December was proclaimed in 1992 by the United Nations General Assembly resolution 47/3. The observance of the day aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilise support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.
Hanukkah
Thursday, 7 December, 2023
Hanukkah, which means “dedication” in Hebrew, begins on the 25th of Kislev on the Hebrew calendar and usually falls in November or December. This year, Hanukkah begins on 7 December, and ends on 15 December. Often called the Festival of Lights, the holiday is celebrated with the lighting of the menorah, traditional foods, games and gifts to reaffirm the ideals of Judaism.
Bodhi Day
Friday, 8 December, 2023
Bodhi Day is a Buddhist holiday celebrating the enlightenment of Siddhartha Gautama, who later became known as Buddha.
Pansexual Pride Day
Friday, 8 December, 2023
Pansexual Pride Day is an annual celebration of the pansexual community, which recognises, celebrates and brings visibility to those who identify as pansexual. It is celebrated in December each year and is an important opportunity for pansexual people to come together, celebrate their identities, and advocate for a more inclusive society.
Human Rights Day
Sunday, 10 December, 2023
Human Rights Day is observed every year on 10 December — the day the United Nations General Assembly adopted, in 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). The UDHR is a milestone document, which proclaims the inalienable rights that everyone is entitled to as a human being - regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, language, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status. Available in more than 500 languages, it is the most translated document in the world.
International Migrants Day
Monday, 18 December, 2023
On 4 December 2000, the UN General Assembly, taking into account the large and increasing number of migrants in the world, proclaimed 18 December International Migrants Day.
Migration is a global phenomenon driven by many forces. These start with aspirations for dignity, safety and peace. The decision to leave home is always extreme, and, too often, the beginning of a dangerous, sometimes fatal journey.
Christmas Day
Monday, 25 December, 2023
Christmas is an annual festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, observed primarily on 25 December as a religious and cultural celebration among billions of people around the world.