Celebrating Australia’s Cultural Diversity in Your Schools – Harmony Week 2025

Did you know that more than half (51.5%) of Australian residents were born overseas, or have at least one parent who was?

Australia is one of the most successful multicultural societies in the world. Harmony Week is a great opportunity to celebrate that, and it is also the perfect time to focus on inclusiveness, belonging, and respect within your classrooms and communities. Here are some activities that you can facilitate to encourage acceptance within your classroom!

What is Harmony Week?

Harmony Week 2025 will be observed from Monday, 17 March to Sunday, 23 March. This annual celebration highlights Australia’s cultural diversity and the benefits it brings to our society. It also includes the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on Friday, 21 March. 

As educators, you play an important role in creating and maintaining an environment where diversity is embraced, and every student feels a sense of belonging.

Considering all that our wonderfully diverse communities have to offer, here are some classroom activities for both primary and secondary students:

Primary Activities

1. Class Museum

Create a classroom museum showcasing family objects that reflect the diversity of the students. Encourage students to bring items from home that represent their cultural heritage and share the stories behind them. This activity promotes understanding and appreciation of different backgrounds. 

2. Acrostic Poem

Have students brainstorm words associated with cultural diversity in Australia and choose one to write an acrostic poem. This creative exercise allows students to express their understanding of diversity through poetry. 

Secondary Activities

1. Research Project on a Multicultural Icon

Assign students to research and write a brief biography of an individual from a multicultural background who has made significant contributions to Australian society or promotes inclusivity and a sense of belonging through their work. This project encourages students to explore the impact of cultural diversity on Australia’s development. 

Note: a great place to start can be by looking at the recipients of the Australian of the Year Awards.

2. Multicultural Scavenger Hunt

Organise a scavenger hunt that encourages students to identify items and places representing multicultural Australia around the school. This interactive activity helps students recognise and appreciate the cultural symbols present in their everyday environment. 

Additional Resources

For more resources and detailed lesson plans tailored to different year levels, visit the official Harmony Week website: 

Primary: https://www.harmony.gov.au/get-involved/schools/primary-school

Secondary: https://www.harmony.gov.au/get-involved/schools/lower-secondary

Lesson Plans and Resources: https://www.harmony.gov.au/get-involved/schools/lesson-plans

and https://www.teachstarter.com/au/blog/harmony-day-activities-classroom-teaching-resources

Acknowledge and actively celebrate the rich diversity of our nation. Let’s make Harmony Week 2025 a time of learning, connection, and appreciation for all cultures!