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The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy

19 February 2025
Community Perth
Culture and cultural heritage
Aunty Professor Lynette Riley and Mr Steven Satour

​​In this historic 50th year of NAIDOC Week, National NAIDOC Committee Co-Chairs, Aunty (Professor) Lynette Riley and Mr Steven Satour reflect on this year’s NAIDOC Week theme.

​​The 2025 NAIDOC Week theme is The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy. 

​For National NAIDOC Committee Co-Chair, Steven Satour,  NAIDOC Week 2025 marks a powerful milestone: 50 years of honouring and elevating Indigenous voices, culture, and resilience.  

The theme celebrates not only the achievements of the past but the bright future ahead, empowered by the strength of our young leaders, the vision of our communities, and the legacy of our ancestors.

​The NAIDOC journey began as a movement for recognition and rights of First Nation peoples, sparked by Indigenous communities who saw a future built on justice and equality. 

​“As we commemorate this 50-year legacy, we also look forward, honouring the next generation who will carry the torch, shaping the future with courage, insight, and deep respect for our roots.” said Mr Satour. 

Each NAIDOC week reinforces our vision for an Australia where First Nation voices are not only heard but are at the table and leading the way.

​National NAIDOC Committee Co-Chair, Aunty (Professor) Lynette Riley, said that this year, the National NAIDOC Committee takes an important step toward independence, embracing self-determination as a model for the next generation.  

​With every story shared, every act of resilience remembered, and every cultural practice celebrated, we honour a legacy that reaches far into the past and extends into the future.

​For Aunty Lynette, this NAIDOC Week celebrates not just a milestone but a movement that endures, grows, and evolves. 

From this solid foundation, the next generation will rise—grounded in the strength of our Elders, history, inspired by a shared vision, and committed to building a legacy of unity, respect, and self-determination for all.

​The 2025 National NAIDOC Week grants, Awards Nominations and Poster Competition are now open. Find out more: www.naidoc.org.au