ARIA Award-winning artist and Gumbaynggirr and Dunghutti woman Casey Donovan will headline the ACT’s free Reconciliation Day celebration on Monday 1 June 2026.

Observed as a public holiday in the ACT, Reconciliation Day is a time for the Canberra community to come together, learn about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and strengthen our shared commitment to reconciliation.

Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs Suzanne Orr said the 2026 celebration would invite Canberrans to embrace the spirit of this year’s National Reconciliation Week theme, ‘All In’.

“Reconciliation calls on all of us to listen, learn and commit to building a future grounded in respect and equality for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people,” Minister Orr said. 

“This year’s theme ‘All In’ reminds us that we all have a role to play in reconciliation. Reconciliation Day provides a meaningful opportunity to reflect on how we can each contribute to a more inclusive, respectful and united ACT.

“We are honoured to welcome Casey Donovan as the headline act for the ACT’s 2026 Reconciliation Day celebration. Casey’s powerful voice and strong connection to culture will create a meaningful and memorable moment for our community, while we exercise our commitment to celebrate and elevate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and voices.” 

Casey Donovan’s performance will be part of an engaging program of live music, dance, storytelling and cultural activities celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. The program also includes performances from Tahalianna Soward-Maganga, Wiradjuri Echoes, Liam Keenan, and more.

Reconciliation Day 2026 is a free, family-friendly event, running from 10am to 3pm at its new home in Dunmore Lang Place in the National Triangle. The event is conveniently situated near rapid and local bus routes. For more information on ways to get to and from the event visit the Transport Canberra website.

The event will start with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony. To support this event, and removing barriers to support broader reconciliation, the ACT Emergency Services Agency (ESA) has announced that the use of fire for cultural purposes no longer requires a permit in the ACT.

For more information, including the full program, visit: www.act.gov.au/reconciliation-day

Quote attributable to Casey Donovan:

“I’m excited to perform at Reconciliation Day 2026 and join the Canberra community for such an important celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, stories and culture. Music has a powerful way of bringing people together, and I hope this year’s event encourages people to embrace the spirit of All In by continuing to listen, learn and walk together on the journey of reconciliation.”