Indian-Australian filmmaker Anupam Sharma will bring a multicultural perspective to the Australia Day celebrations in regional NSW, serving as an ambassador for the Gwydir Shire Council in Bingara, near Tamworth.
Sharma, a producer, director and Chair of the Australia India Film Council, is among 111 Australians selected for the 2026 Australia Day Ambassador Program, now in its 36th year. The initiative sees inspirational figures travel to Local Government Areas across the state to participate in local events.
For Sharma, an Indian-born Australian, January 26 holds dual significance, also marking India’s Republic Day.
“For me, 26 January is a celebration of unity and creativity, of stories that travel and cinema that unites,” he said. “It’s about honouring the diverse voices—from our First Nations peoples to our newest citizens—that enrich our national story.”
He said the classic Aussie spirit of ‘she’ll be right, mate’ resonates deeply. “As an Indian‑Australian, it mirrors the Indian sentiment that ‘all will be well in the end’—that with effort, mateship and patience, things turn out well. It’s optimism without bluster; reassurance we offer one another.”
In his ambassadorial role, Sharma will present community awards, participate in local festivities, and attend citizenship ceremonies. His 25-year career has pioneered cinematic links between Australia and India, producing over 415 projects including the film “unINDIAN” and the documentary “Brand Bollywood… Downunder.”
NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism, the Hon Steve Kamper, said the growing program highlighted strong community engagement. “The Australia Day Ambassador program is a reminder of how strong our sense of community in NSW truly is,” Kamper said.
Sharma has a particular affinity for regional postings, recalling a powerful experience in Coonabarabran after the bushfires. “I usually always choose to go to regional Australia,” he said. “I learn more about First Nations Australians, country Australia, and can share more about the Indian migrant culture. That exchange is what the day is all about.”
The 2026 program will see ambassadors visit communities from Balranald Shire in the Murray region to Parramatta in Sydney.
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