Media Release

Celebrating Culture, Connection and the Next Generation at AbSec’s 2025 NAIDOC Family Fun Day

AbSec’s much-loved NAIDOC Family Fun Day returns to the Inner West, Marrickville PCYC on Wednesday 9 July with a program packed with family fun to celebrate 50 years of NAIDOC Week, our enduring cultures, communities and connection to Country.  

As the peak organisation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, young people, and families in New South Wales, AbSec exists to see the next generation thrive. Thriving starts by recognising our shared identity as a nation, one that honours Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Peoples of this land. Our Family Fun Day is one of the state’s largest NAIDOC events, a space where community pride shines and everyone is invited to learn, listen, and celebrate together.

In 2024, the event welcomed over 2,000 people. Making it one of our most anticipated and widely cherished community events of the year, featuring rides, live music, interactive workshops, and performances. More than 50 stalls will set up shop on the day, giving attendees a chance to yarn with local community services, sample some delicious food and immerse themselves in Aboriginal arts, crafts and engaging stories. 

John Leha, CEO of AbSec, said “Bringing people together to celebrate the rich cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is what the Family Fun Day is all about.”

“It’s NAIDOC Week’s 50th year and the theme: The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy resonates deeply with our work at AbSec,” Leha said.

“We’re here to safeguard and share the world’s oldest living culture, and that begins with strengthening our children and young people through sharing generational knowledge, fostering connection, community, and celebration.” 

“Family Fun Day is more than entertainment, it’s about breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for everyone to engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and stories in a space led by mob, for mob, and open to all,” Leha said. 

The event is free, family-friendly, and open to everyone, an invitation to walk together in pride and recognition. 

About AbSec

AbSec is the peak organisation concerned with the welfare of Aboriginal children, young people and families. We advocate for their rights, while supporting carers and communities. Our main priority is to keep children and young people safe, with the key goal of also keeping them within their family and community. It is vitally important that young people grow up surrounded by those who understand them, comfortable within their own culture where they will thrive.

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