It’s been a big start to NAIDOC Week 2026 at Outcare — and we’re only just getting started.
This year’s national theme,”50 Years of Deadly,” celebrates five decades of NAIDOC Week as a platform for truth-telling, cultural pride, resilience, leadership and community connection. It honours the generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who have led, advocated, created change and kept culture strong, while inspiring the next generation to continue that journey.
While our commitment to cultural safety, reconciliation and working alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples continues all year round, NAIDOC Week provides a special opportunity to amplify these conversations, share resources, celebrate culture and deepen connections within the communities we’re privileged to be part of.
This week is about listening, learning, celebrating, reflecting and ensuring the stories, voices and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples remain front and centre in our work and our communities.
Celebrating Excellence at the Southern Aboriginal Corporation NAIDOC Ball
Our NAIDOC celebrations began in Albany, where Outcare was proud to sponsor and attend the Southern Aboriginal Corporation NAIDOC Ball. The event celebrates the achievements, leadership and contributions of Aboriginal people across the Great Southern and beyond. Our Executive Leadership Team attended alongside Dennis Simmons from Maar Koodjal, reflecting the strong partnerships and shared commitment we have to supporting Aboriginal people, families and communities across Western Australia.
A highlight of the evening was presenting the Sportsperson of the Year Award to Cheri Hicks, an Aboriginal leader with the Department of Communities. Cheri was recognised for her dedication to supporting and encouraging young athletes, helping them develop confidence, resilience and opportunities through sport.
It was a powerful reminder that leadership takes many forms, and that investing in the next generation creates lasting impact for individuals, families and communities.
Meaningful Conversations at the NAIDOC Opening Ceremony
On Sunday 5th July, our team was out in full force at the Perth NAIDOC Opening Ceremony at Moort-ak Waadiny (Wellington Square), connecting with community, sharing information about Outcare and celebrating culture together. The event marks the official opening of NAIDOC Week and provides an opportunity for organisations and communities to come together in recognition and celebration.
Yes, there were plenty of selfies with our photo frame, lots of laughs and some fantastic conversations — but what will stay with us most are the genuine moments of connection throughout the day.
One visitor from Noongar Radio stopped by our stall, loved the set-up and shared encouraging feedback about the work Outcare is doing in the community. Another memorable moment came when an Elder was drawn to the artwork displayed at our stall. She took time to learn more about the piece, asked for a photo with it and shared part of her own story with us, including that she has two sons currently incarcerated and the importance of Outcare’s work. Conversations like these are a reminder of why our work matters and why creating spaces for connection, understanding and support is so important.
We also met a local family who were keen to chat about the services and supports available in the community. They shared positive reflections about Outcare’s work and were genuinely interested in learning more about how we support people to build stronger futures.
These interactions may seem like small moments, but they represent something much bigger. They are opportunities to build trust, strengthen relationships and ensure people know they are seen, valued and supported.
Looking Ahead: Perth NAIDOC Ball
The celebrations continue this weekend as members of the Outcare team attend the Perth NAIDOC Ball at Crown Perth. The evening brings together Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders, community members, organisations and allies from across Western Australia to celebrate culture, achievement and community.
We look forward to connecting with our peers, partners, community members and friends, sharing stories, strengthening relationships and continuing important conversations about the work we all play in raising awareness, supporting stronger outcomes and creating lasting impact. Events like these remind us that meaningful change happens through connection, collaboration and a shared commitment to walking alongside community.
Wearing Our Story with Pride
You might also spot something new on our team members this NAIDOC Week.
This year, we’re proudly wearing our new Outcare Aboriginal Art T-shirts, featuring artwork specially commissioned by Kieren Pearce.
Whether we’re attending community events across the region, connecting with partners, having conversations whilst we’re on Outreach or celebrating alongside community at NAIDOC events, our shirts are helping us proudly carry and share Outcare’s story wherever we go.
So if you see our team out and about in community this week, be sure to come and say hello — we’d love to have a yarn, hear your story and celebrate 50 Years of Deadly together. ❤️💛🖤
Happy NAIDOC Week 2026 from everyone at Outcare.
Walking alongside people, families and communities to build stronger futures together.
