Sydney is set to sparkle as the program for Australia Day 2025 unfolds, inviting locals and visitors alike to embrace a day of reflection, celebration, and connection. From the early morning Dawn Reflection to the spectacular fireworks and live music finale, the event promises something for everyone against the stunning backdrop of Sydney Harbour on Eora Country.
The festivities begin with the WugulOra Morning Ceremony, a tribute to First Nations cultures and the shared journey of Australia’s history. This powerful gathering sets the tone for a day that blends tradition with community spirit, encouraging attendees to reflect on the country’s rich cultural tapestry.
Sydney Harbour will once again host the much-loved Ferrython, a lively competition where four iconic Emerald Class ferries, piloted by first responders, race across the harbour waves. Spectators lining the shoreline will cheer for representatives from NSW Police, Fire and Rescue, Ambulance NSW, and the State Emergency Service, each vying for top honours in this quintessential Sydney spectacle.
The day crescendos with the Australia Day Live concert, a star-studded event staged at the Sydney Opera House Forecourt. Featuring performances from Dragon, Ben Lee, Sheppard, and more, the concert will be accompanied by a breathtaking fireworks display over the harbour. Free tickets for the concert will be available from 10:00 am AEDT on 15 January, ensuring accessibility for families navigating tighter budgets.
John Graham, NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism, expressed the inclusive spirit behind the program: “Sydney locals and visitors want to spend Australia Day in a way that’s meaningful to them. This program allows them to do just that, offering a variety of ways to reflect, respect, and celebrate without straining finances.”
Accessibility and inclusion remain a focal point of this year’s events. Building on the NSW Government’s Event Accessibility and Inclusion program, the Australia Day initiative ensures participation for all. Innovations include haptic vests for D/deaf attendees to experience concert beats, Auslan interpreters, wheelchair basketball, sensory-friendly spaces, and a silent disco. Bands like Sync or Swim, featuring members with lived experiences of disability, will further highlight inclusivity.
The WugulOra Morning Ceremony and Australia Day Live will be broadcast live, allowing those unable to attend to join in the experience through ABC TV, ABC iview, NITV, and SBS. Beyond Sydney, citizenship ceremonies and local events will echo the day’s themes across the state, showcasing the creativity and diversity of communities throughout New South Wales.
Chair of the Australia Day Council of NSW, Yvonne Weldon AM, emphasised the event’s evolving cultural integrity: “Respect for Aboriginal culture is at the heart of everything we do for Australia Day in Sydney. Our program reflects a commitment to honouring the past while celebrating modern Australia.”
Whether watching the Ferrython, enjoying the live music, or attending a citizenship ceremony, the Australia Day 2025 program offers countless ways for individuals to connect and celebrate. As the sun sets over Sydney Harbour, the day will stand as a testament to the city’s vibrant community spirit and enduring respect for its heritage.
Australia Day in Sydney 2025 – Event Program Highlights
- Dawn Reflection: The day begins with the moving Dawn Reflection, as the sun rises on 26 January, the Sydney Opera House sails will be illuminated with a spectacular Aboriginal artwork, inviting Australians to reflect on our history and shared future. More details on the 2025 Dawn Reflection artist are coming soon.
- WugulOra Morning Ceremony: Communities come together for WugulOra (meaning
‘One Mob’) in Barangaroo Reserve. This moving ceremony symbolises how we can embrace each other, offering cleansing and healing for new beginnings and fresh inspiration for our future. Presented by official media partner, NITV. - OzDay 10K, witness the world’s best wheelchair track and road athletes, including
Paralympian Gold Medallist Madison De Rosario, spin through The Rocks. - Ferrython, an undeniable crowd favourite, 2025 will see vibrantly decorated ferries, each helmed by the state’s invaluable first responder agencies. Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW Police, Ambulance NSW and NSW State Emergency Service will all race across Sydney Harbour in a spirited and colourful competition.
- Mega Kidz Zone, the Overseas Passenger Terminal will be transformed into a free
interactive arcade for children of all ages. Get lost in the massive maze, bounce through the enormous inflatable obstacle course, or dance to the beats of the silent disco.
Midday Salute, the Royal Australian Air Force Roulettes will soar into the skies, delivering
an impressive showcase of precision flying performing loops, rolls and high-G turns in an
awe-inspiring display. - Maritime Mayhem, vessels of all shapes and sizes battle it out on the waters of Circular Quay, synchronised to a rockin’ soundtrack with beats that will make your heart race and feet tap.
- Australia Day Regatta, the oldest continuously run annual sailing event in the world. Watch a fleet of diverse vessels grace the waterways of the Eastern Harbour in a display of skill and camaraderie, where the beauty of our waters meets the heart of our nation.
- Australia Day Live, featuring a fresh line-up of Australian talent including Ben Lee,
Sheppard, Paulini, William Barton, Dragon, Sync or Swim and many, many more. Set against the spectacular Sydney Harbour, the Australia Day Live concert is a long-standing highlight of the 26 January celebrations. 2025 sees a revitalised format, featuring new voices and performances that celebrate the spirit of Australia.
The full program of events and event information is available at www.australiaday.com.au.
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🌅 Celebrate #AustraliaDay2025 in #Sydney with ceremonies, Ferrython, live music, fireworks, & inclusive activities! 🎆 Reflect, respect, & connect through vibrant events on Sydney Harbour. 🌟 How will you celebrate this year? 🤔 #TheIndianSunhttps://t.co/OWnZBP8MPw
— The Indian Sun (@The_Indian_Sun) January 21, 2025
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