|
Port Macquarie Neighbourhood Centre
[email protected] Wauchope Neighbourhood Centre
[email protected] |
02 6583 8044
02 6586 4055
0408 194 947
|
|
|
If your service would like to come along to the network meeting, please email [email protected] for more information.
|
Hastings Neighbourhood Services hosts the Hastings Community Network. The Network consists of 66 other like-minded community support organisations who meet on a bimonthly basis at the Port Macquarie Neighbourhood Centre. The interagency meeting is an opportunity for local service providers to come together to share information, discuss current or upcoming programs, initiatives and community events, or raise any pressing issues or concerns.
|
|
Why it Matters Days like this help highlight the realities of physical disability beyond stereotypes. They foster understanding, encourage meaningful conversations, and amplify the voices and stories that often go unheard. Click here to Learn More: Physical Disability Awareness Day 2026 | PDA |
Physical Disability Awareness Day is an important moment for Australia’s disability community to come together to raise awareness, celebrate achievements, and strengthen inclusion for people living with physical disabilities.
What is Physical Disability Awareness Day? It was established by Physical Disability Australia (PDA) in 2023 to fill a gap in Australia’s awareness calendar and shine a spotlight on the lived experiences, contributions, strengths, and diverse identities of people with physical disabilities. The day is dedicated to challenging stigma, celebrating visibility, and promoting a more inclusive society where people with physical disabilities are seen, heard, and valued. Physical Disability Awareness Day is a powerful reminder that visibility leads to empathy, inclusion drives change, and every voice matters. |
|
The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination marks the 1960 Sharpeville massacre, to mobilise global action against racism and inequality. The day emphasises combating systemic racism, digital hate speech, and promoting the rights of migrants and First Peoples.
Governments, organisations and individuals each have a role to play in standing against racism and fighting for our deep-rooted Australian values of a fair go, mutual respect and equal opportunity for all. |
|
Facts and Figures There are some fascinating statistics about Australia's diversity that can be good conversation-starters:
|
Harmony Week is an annual celebration of Australia’s cultural diversity and the benefits it brings to the Australian community. It is a day to wear orange to celebrate. Since 1999, more than 80,000 Harmony Week events have been held across Australia in:
Our cultural diversity is one of our greatest strengths and is at the heart of who we are. It makes Australia a great place to live. Building on over 65,000 years of First Nations cultures, Australia has become home to migrants from nearly 300 different ancestries. Australia’s immigration history has helped build our modern nation. An integrated multicultural Australia is an integral part of our national identity. All people who migrate to Australia bring with them some of their own cultural and religious traditions. They also take on many new traditions. Collectively, these traditions have enriched our nation. Click here to Learn More: Harmony Week - Everyone belongs |
|
Youth Week began as a NSW Government initiative in 1989, and has since grown to be a celebration of young people in every state and territory across the country.
It is organised by young people, for young people, in communities across NSW and Australia. Following the success of the NSW Youth Week program, Youth Week became a national event in 2000. National Youth Week is jointly supported by the Australian government, state and territory governments and local governments. Youth Week is an opportunity for young people across NSW to come together in their local communities. Councils, youth organisations and schools work with young people to host free activities, events and competitions! |
|
The aim of Families Week is to celebrate the vital role families play in Australian society and reflect on their importance in teaching, supporting and nurturing children as they grow.
The week coincides with the United Nations International Day of Families on 15 May – a day to mark the importance of families globally and promote awareness of issues relating to families. Families Week is a time to celebrate with your family, connect with your extended family and friends, and share in the enjoyment of family activities within the wider community. |
|
Purpose: Neighbourhood Centre Week (NCW), is a nationwide initiative to celebrate the role of neighbourhood centres in local communities across the national.
It is a time to recognise the people, projects, and everyday moments that bring communities together and make neighbourhoods stronger, kinder, and more connected. Neighbourhood and community centres (NCCs) provide welcoming spaces where everyone can come together, share experiences, learn, and support one another. From volunteering and community projects to casual conversations and learning new skills, these connections create meaningful change that strengthens the social fabric of communities. |
|
2026 is the United Nations International Year of Volunteers for sustainable Development (IVY 2026), recognising the vital role volunteers play in building sustainable, inclusive communities worldwide.
2026 is also the United Nations International Year of Volunteers (IVY 2026) for sustainable Development, recognising the vital role volunteers play in building sustainable, inclusive communities worldwide. |
National Volunteer Week is Australia's largest annual celebration of volunteering.
'Your Year to Volunteer' honours the contributions of volunteers and invites people across Australia to make 2026 a year of meaningful involvement, in ways that work for them.
It recognises the contribution of millions of volunteers across the country and invites everyone to discover how giving their time and talents can create connection, purpose and stronger communities. We encourage volunteer involving organisations, governments, researchers, corporates and other enabling organisations to promote the week and use the available resources to help raise awareness of the contribution volunteers make every day. Click Here to Learn More: National Volunteer Week - Volunteering Australia |
|
Homelessness Australia hosts Homelessness Week annually to build community support and government commitment to end homelessness. During the week homelessness services and community groups raise awareness of the impact of homelessness, and the solutions needed to end homelessness, and advocate for change via national and local community events, media and social media activities.
|
|
Activities and participation during Homelessness Week various activities will be organised including:
|
|
|
Each year, the day centres around a specific theme. The theme for National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day 2026 is ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision, and Legacy.’ This theme highlights the importance of nurturing and supporting young people so they can carry culture, knowledge, and leadership into the future. |
National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day is an annual event that celebrates the children of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. The day is organised by the Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care (SNAICC) and focuses on recognising the strengths, culture, and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.
The day also aims to promote the rights, safety, and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, while educating the wider community about issues that affect First Nations families. It is a time for remembering, honouring, and learning, and for celebrating one of the world’s oldest continuing cultures. Click here to learn more: National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Day 2026 | |
|
Why is International Youth Day Important? Young people around the world face a wide range of challenges, including bullying, mental health issues, limited access to education, poverty, and more. International Youth Day serves as a platform for governments, organizations, and communities to raise awareness of these issues and take meaningful action. It also empowers young people by giving them the opportunity to express their concerns, share their perspectives, and be part of the conversation on shaping a better future. |
International Youth Day is a global celebration established by the United Nations to raise awareness of the challenges and issues faced by young people around the world.
This day provides an opportunity to recognise the valuable contributions of youth to society, while also highlighting the need to address the concerns and aspirations of the younger generation. When is International Youth Day? International Youth Day 2026 will be celebrated on Tuesday, August 12. On this day, events and activities will be held worldwide to highlight youth-related issues and give governments, organizations, and communities the opportunity to support and empower young people. This Years Theme The theme for International Youth Day 2026 is “Youth Advancing Multilateral Cooperation Through Technology and Partnerships.” This theme emphasises the vital role of young people in shaping and strengthening global cooperation, particularly through the use of technology and strategic partnerships. |
|
Child abuse and neglect is preventable. If we all work together as a community, we can create an Australia where all children can grow up safe and well.
Leesa Waters, CEO, NAPCAN |
Tips for Playing Your Part Children thrive when we all understand how to play our part in keeping them safe and well. There are many things that we can do in everyday life – to make a difference in the life of a child – in our jobs, in our families, in our neighbourhoods, in our clubs or organisations, and in our social groups. |
|
This year National Child Protection Week is driving a stronger national focus on shifting conversations into meaningful action. Conversations can spark new ideas and encourage reflection. But real change happens when those conversations translate into practical steps that create safer environments and stronger support for children and families. National Child Protection Week helps turn these conversations into action. Extending beyond the Week itself as a year-round national campaign, it brings people across Australia together to strengthen support systems, prevent harm and help children grow up safe and supported. By shifting conversation to action, we can build communities where every child not only feels heard but also experiences real safety, care and protection. These could be conversations between:
|
AUNTS/UNCLES
Aunts/Uncles play their part to protect and care for children and young people in their community by encouraging families to spend time together and strengthen their family connections.
|
|
Why It Matters
|
World Suicide Prevention Day is a powerful global observance dedicated to raising awareness around suicide prevention, mental health support, and breaking the stigma associated with suicidal thoughts.
It provides an opportunity for communities, organisations, and individuals to unite in sharing life-saving information and promoting compassionate action. Founded in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), World Suicide Prevention Day aims to highlight that suicide is preventable and mobilise global action. Organisations, healthcare professionals, governments, and community members coordinate events, seminars, memorial ceremonies, and social media campaigns to foster awareness, compassion, and hope. Click Here to Learn More: World Suicide Prevention Day 2026 | Awareness Days |
|
Join the Conversation, Amplify the Movement Every story shared helps show the value of coming together to celebrate healing. Amplify your voice, share what matters to you, and show your community that no one is alone. Share your own story, honor someone you care about, or help normalise conversations about mental health. Healing Begins in Community Mental Health Awareness Month is about more than awareness. It’s about showing up for one another. Whether you’re living with a mental health condition, supporting a loved one, or advocating for change, NAMI offers programs, resources, and opportunities for support, connection, and healing. Click Here to Learn More: Mental Health Awareness Month | NAMI |
Purpose
Mental Health Awareness Month provides a chance to stand with your community and show that no one struggles alone. NAMI’s (National Alliance on Mental Illness) 2026 Mental Health Awareness Month theme invites everyone to join NAMI in speaking up against mental health stigma. By sharing our lived experiences, learning from each other’s experiences, and building strong community connections, we can challenge stigma and create spaces where people are supported, understood, and find healing. Every story shared turns silence into connection, and connection into healing. Together, we can strengthen communities and create opportunities for empathy, understanding, and meaningful change. Your Story Can Spark Healing Mental health impacts everyone in our communities. Your experience, your journey, and your voice can help break stigma, build understanding, and create hope and healing for others. Stigma grows in silence. Healing begins in community. This Mental Health Awareness Month share your story to help break the silence. Be the reason someone realizes they don’t have to face this alone. |
|
About carers and National Carers Week
Carers are people who provide unpaid care and support to family members and friends who have a disability, mental health condition, chronic condition, terminal illness, an alcohol or other drug issue or who are frail aged. Anyone can become a carer, at any time. National Carers Week is an opportunity to raise community awareness among all Australians about the diversity of carers and their caring roles. National Carers Week is an initiative of Carers Australia, funded by the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, and coordinated with the assistance and participation of the National Carer Network. |
National Carers Week is a time to recognise and celebrate the contributions of Australia’s carers and an opportunity to raise community awareness among all Australians about the diversity of carers and their caring roles.
It is an initiative of Carers Australia, funded by the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, and coordinated with the assistance and participation of the National Carer Network. Anyone can become a carer, at anytime. The Carer Wellbeing Survey found carers who had good access to support had healthy levels of wellbeing compared to those who had no or limited access to help. Click Here to Learn More: carersaustralia.com.au/information-for-carers/national-carers-week/ |
|
At the centre of the week is Universal Children’s Day. This day reminds us to uphold the dignity and rights of all children, especially those who face disadvantage or do not have access to the essentials for a safe, happy and healthy life. Click Here to Learn More: Home |
Overview of Children's Week
Children’s Week is a national celebration of children’s rights, held each year across Australia around the fourth Wednesday in October. It highlights the rights of children to thrive, learn, play and be heard, as set out in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). Thousands of children and families take part in events and activities throughout the week. These are organised at national, state and local levels and involve schools, playgroups, early learning centres, libraries, community organisations and cultural groups. Children’s Week celebrates the right of every child to enjoy their childhood. It is also a time to recognise and value children’s talents, skills and contributions. Theme for 2026 This year's theme is based on United Nations Convention Article 30 which emphasises that children have the right to use their own language, celebrate their culture, and practice their religion. The theme encourages inclusivity and recognises the diverse background of children in Australia. |
“Our research continues to show that inclusion isn’t only the just thing to do. It’s essential to workplace performance and wellbeing,” About DCA
Diversity Council Australia is the leading peak body for diversity and inclusion. As an independent not-for-profit and charitable organisation, we provide expert guidance to workplaces, policymakers and the broader community through research, tools, events, advocacy and education. Together, with our network of over 1,300 member organisations, we shape more equitable workplaces for a stronger economy and fairer society. |
The Inclusion at Work Week in Australia is dedicated to celebrating the progress Australian organisations are making to foster inclusive workplaces. The Inclusive Employer Index, led by an independent peak body, enables organisations to measure, benchmark, and report on workplace inclusion across nine diversity dimensions.
Employers who exceed national benchmarks earn the title of DCA (Diversity Council Australia) Inclusive Employer, which is recognised nationally as a benchmark for inclusive workplace practice. It’s inspiring to see so many organisations taking meaningful action to create workplaces where everyone can thrive. Being an inclusive employer isn’t about meeting targets or ticking boxes, it’s about listening to your people, understanding their experiences, and building systems and cultures that enable everyone to contribute their best. Click Here to Learn More: DCA reveals 2025-2026 Inclusive Employers to mark Inclusion at Work Week - Diversity Council Australia |
|
The 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Violence is a powerful platform to raise awareness, advocate for survivors, and promote systemic change. By participating, individuals and organisations contribute to a global effort to create a safer, more equitable world free from domestic violence and gender-based abuse.
How to Participate in the 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Violence 2026? Participating in the 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Violence is a meaningful way to contribute to the global effort to end domestic violence. |
The 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Violence is a global campaign aimed at raising awareness and taking action to end domestic violence and gender-based abuse. This annual observance spans from November 25th, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, to December 10th, International Human Rights Day. During these 16 days, individuals, organisations, and communities come together to advocate for a world free from domestic violence.
What are the 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Violence? The 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Violence is an international campaign that seeks to address and combat domestic violence, which disproportionately affects women and marginalised communities. The campaign emphasises the need for gender equality, the eradication of violence against women, and the protection of human rights. Click here to Learn More: 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Violence 2026 | Awareness Days |
|
Participating in International Day of People with Disabilities is a meaningful way to show support for the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities.
Global Impact approximately 1.3 billion people worldwide experience significant disabilities, representing about 16% of the global population. Observing IDPD helps highlight systemic barriers, promote inclusive policies, and ensure that persons with disabilities are not left behind in social, economic, and health initiatives. The day also serves as a platform for launching reports, policy discussions, and international collaborations to strengthen disability inclusion. Key Takeaway The International Day for People with Disabilities is more than a commemoration; it is a call to action to create inclusive societies, remove barriers, and recognize the contributions of persons with disabilities. By participating in awareness campaigns, advocacy, and inclusive initiatives, communities worldwide can advance equality and social progress for all. |
What is International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2026?
International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is an annual event established by the United Nations to raise awareness about the challenges faced by persons with disabilities and to promote their full and equal participation in all aspects of society. It serves as a platform to advocate for the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities. International Day of People with Disabilities is globally recognised as an observance dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities, highlighting the importance of inclusivity, accessibility, and equal achievements and contributions to society. History of International Day of Persons with Disabilities was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1992 to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. The day also commemorates the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which was adopted in 2006. The day serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create a world where individuals with disabilities can fully participate and thrive. Click Here to Learn More: International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2026 | Awareness Days |
|
The theme for IVY 2026 is “Every Contribution Matters”, emphasising that volunteers are a driving force behind sustainable development, humanitarian response, and community resilience.
How to Get Involved Individuals can participate by joining local volunteer initiatives, supporting community projects, or engaging with UNV programs. Organisations are encouraged to align their activities with sustainable development goals and recognise volunteer contributions as integral to societal progress. International Volunteer Day 2026 serves as both a global recognition of volunteer efforts and a strategic platform to advance sustainable development through volunteerism. |
Significance and Objectives IVD 2026 is not only a celebration but also a call to action. The UN encourages governments, civil society, academia, and the private sector to integrate volunteering into national and international development strategies. This approach recognises volunteerism as a strategic force for achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, rather than a supplementary activity. The day also highlights the role of women in volunteering, acknowledging their leadership in community initiatives, social services, and humanitarian efforts, while promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment. Global Participation The UN reports that over 2.1 billion people volunteer monthly worldwide, demonstrating the scale and importance of volunteer contributions. National committees and events are being organised across six continents to strengthen knowledge-sharing, celebrate volunteer achievements, and encourage broader participation. IVY 2026 also aims to improve the measurement of volunteering and support enabling environments for volunteers and their organisations. Click Here to Learn More: IVY2026 |