Australian Heritage Festival

The Australian Heritage Festival is the biggest, longest-running event honouring the indigenous, natural, multicultural, and historical heritage of Australia.

The first event was held in 1980, and today it’s Australia’s largest festival celebrating culture and heritage – it remains unparalleled regarding the event’s national reach.

The event curates a theme showcasing Australian heritage’s diversity and breadth each year. Many events focus on bush tucker tours, river walks, and similar outdoor activities to raise awareness of migration and multiculturalism. There are also educational elements such as talks, film screenings, exhibitions, music, crafts, traditional games, and dance, all attended by thousands of people. Special activities for kids and families will also be included.

The festival is celebrated throughout the country, with states and territories participating in almost a thousand events in Australia. It takes place between April and May, with ample time for citizens and tourists to catch at least one event nearby.

For event organisers in your respective communities, you will be provided with dedicated listings on the website, media coverage, digital and social media collateral, buntings, promotions, and added support from the state coordinators.

The government supports the Australian Heritage Festival; through the National Trusts Partnership Program. True to its community-driven nature, interested volunteers may apply to help in their respective areas. This is also an excellent opportunity to become a Trust member, which enables you to support the cause while helping conserve Australian heritage. Other perks include discounted entries to various Trust events locally and worldwide.

Most venues are easily accessible by private or public transport (trains, buses, ferries or light rail). Be aware that traffic delays may occur in reaching any inner-city venues at various times; public transport may be your best option.

With so many events on, there are too many to summarise on this page. Please check out the event schedule on the official event website for complete details.