Innovators, educators, musicians, healthcare professionals, elite athletes and environmental advocates are among 80 inspirational Australians who will take part in events across NSW as Australia Day Ambassadors on 26 January 2025.
These outstanding citizens and local heroes are handpicked each year by the Australia Day Council of NSW for their exceptional contributions to the community to inspire national spirit. This year’s cohort features charity founders helping people in crisis, an architect committed to sustainable living and an award-winning children’s author.
Their personal stories are as unique and inspiring as the local communities they visit. The Australia Day Ambassadors will travel to all corners of the state, from Bega Valley to Blacktown and Griffith to Glen Innes, participating in citizenship ceremonies welcoming new Australians, community festivals, cultural performances and charity events.
“These NSW Australia Day Ambassadors represent the heart and soul of our state and showcase the community spirit that we celebrate in NSW,” Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham said.
“Our ambassadors are an integral part of the Australia Day in NSW program and will take part in events and activities in communities right around the state.
“I look forward to seeing this year’s group of accomplished Australians inspire communities and unite us as we come together as a nation to respect and reflect.”
Hosted by NSW local councils, the Australia Day Ambassadors will share personal stories of what being Australian means to them.
“Being an Australia Day Ambassador is an opportunity to connect with people across NSW and celebrate the resilience, kindness and inclusiveness that make our country so special,” said Australia Day Ambassador, NSW Young Australian of the Year 2013 and former NRL player Corey Payne.
“It’s inspiring to witness the pride and passion that NSW communities bring as they come together to reflect on what makes our country unique.”
The full Australia Day in Sydney program, including the line-up of performers at Australia Day Live, will be announced on 14 January 2025.
“The NSW Australia Day Ambassador Program is one of the most impactful Australia Day initiatives. Every year I am inspired by these exceptional individuals who volunteer their time to connect with communities and celebrate the spirit that defines us as Australians,” 2025 Australia Day Council of NSW Chair Yvonne Weldon said.
“Australia Day is a time for inclusion and recognition. It is also an opportunity to honour our shared history, continuing the significant contributions and custodianship of First Nations people, while embracing our diversity and strengthening bonds that unite as a community.”
Australia Day in Sydney 2025 – Event Program Highlights
The NSW Government’s lead agency for tourism and major events, Destination NSW, is delivering the
Australia Day in Sydney event program.
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.
