News

Celebrating our multiculturalism

Diversity nation’s greatest strength and at the heart of who we all are

EVERYONE’S encouraged to come together in Harmony Week (March 15-21) to celebrate Australia’s cultural diversity.
We can all help celebrate our cultural diversity by living the Harmony Week message ‘everyone belongs’. It’s about inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone.
When is Harmony Week celebrated?
Harmony Week is celebrated throughout Australia in a week-long celebration of cultural diversity. Since it was first held in 1999, Harmony Week has grown to become a significant time for Australians to come together and celebrate our nation’s cultural diversity.
What is Harmony Week?
Harmony Week is a week to celebrate Australian multiculturalism, based on the successful integration of migrants into our community. It is an opportunity for all Australians to embrace cultural diversity and to share what we have in common.
Harmony Week is a community celebration. Since 1999, more than 77,000 Harmony Week events have been held in childcare centres, schools, community groups, churches, businesses and federal, state and local government agencies across Australia.
Multiculturalism is in Australia’s national interest. It is about inclusiveness, respect and belonging for all Australians, regardless of cultural or linguistic background, united by a set of core Australian values.
Australia is one of the most successful multicultural countries in the world and we should celebrate this and work to maintain it.
Our cultural diversity is one of our greatest strengths and is at the heart of who we are. An integrated multicultural Australia is an integral part of our nation’s history and character.
How does the community celebrate Harmony Week?
Community groups have made Harmony Week their own by organising events according to their needs, interests and strengths.
Morning teas, fairs, concerts, school assemblies, sporting events and national costume days are among the different events that have been staged to showcase cultures, traditions and backgrounds.
Why does orange represent Harmony Week?
Orange has been the Harmony Week colour since the first event was held in 1999.
Traditionally the colour orange relates to social communication, stimulating two-way conversations. It aids in the development of new ideas and frees the spirit of its limitations, giving us the freedom to be ourselves. At the same time, it encourages self-respect and respect of others.
For more, visit harmony.gov.au.