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The central message for Harmony Week is that ‘everyone belongs’, reinforcing the importance of inclusiveness to all Australians.  Harmony Week is a great opportunity to recognise that inclusiveness is an Australian value. If possible, the Aussie of the Month could be presented in a Harmony Week assembly, with a student from a diverse background given the opportunity to tell their story, or for a student to be recognised for their effort in including all.

In 2025, Harmony Week is celebrated nationally from 17-23 March and in Western Australia from 15-21 March.

Activity Options

Stand Up For Diversity

Ask students to stand in their assembly who were not born in Australia. Remaining students are then asked to stand if any of their parents were born in Australia, followed by their grandparents, and finally any of their friends or community. This visual technique is an opportunity to show students that the Australian identity is not determined by where they are born, but their involvement in the community.

Unique Stories

Have members of the community tell how they or their families arrived in Australia. Stories from students, staff and members of the community could be used to show students the multicultural nature of Australia, and recognise the unique journeys many make to be here. You could also look at leaders of harmony who have been recognised in the Australian of the Year Awards for their advocacy and support for multiculturalism.

Classroom Quilt Project

Students could create a quilt for their classroom wall, where each student is given the opportunity to draw something significant to their culture.

Talking Points

  • Explain the concept of ‘culture’
  • How many different languages are spoken in the classroom?
  • How can we help all people feel like they belong in Australia?

Resources

There are plenty of tools and ideas to help your students get involved in Harmony Week. The Department of Home Affairs has provided useful and engaging resources, including promotional kits and lesson plan ideas. Click below to access them.

Presenting your Aussie of the Month during Harmony Week

When presenting your Aussie of the Month during Harmony Week, you could:

  • Play a video message from an Australian of the Year Local Hero who has been recognised for promoting harmony and inclusion. Find out more here.
  • Invite a representative from a local multicultural association or a significant individual from a diverse background
  • Present your recipient with a Harmony Week certificate alongside their Aussie of the Month certificate.