As Europe recovered from the devastation of World War II, Australia responded to an international call to offer a future to people with nowhere to call home.
Since that initial agreement in 1947 to receive 4000 refugees from Central Europe, Australia has issued one million permanent humanitarian visas – welcoming people from all parts of the globe, people who have helped to build modern Australia.
Refugee Week 2026 is a moment to reflect on that milestone and to celebrate the million stories behind it.
Each story is unique. Each one is powerful. And together, they shape the Australia we all call home today.
This is about more than a number. One person’s journey influences the lives of many others: children, grandchildren, and future generations who leave their unique mark on our shared story. A thread in something greater; a million colourful strands woven into a rich and beautiful tapestry, shaping communities and stories we continue to tell.
As we celebrate this milestone, we also look to the future.
How can we continue to welcome people in need of safety?
What more can we do, as individuals and communities, to offer support and understanding?
And how can each of us show kindness and help people feel they belong?
As part of celebrating the 40th Refugee Week, a celebration born in Australia and now observed around the world, let’s keep sharing stories, challenging stereotypes, and building a more inclusive society.
Let’s build on our legacy.
Why does Refugee Week have a theme?
- Our theme helps raise awareness of the issues affecting refugees. It aims to highlight aspects of the refugee experience and help the broader community to understand what it is like to be a refugee.
- Our theme helps to make Refugee Week a national celebration. It provides a focal point for events across Australia, uniting separate activities into a single nationwide celebration.
- Our theme promotes harmony and togetherness. It unites individuals, communities and organisations from many different backgrounds behind a common cause. It’s a reminder that, regardless of our differences, we all share a common humanity.
- Our theme broadens the impact of Refugee Week. It provides a common, cohesive message which can be promoted across the country, helping to maximise the effectiveness of awareness-raising activities.
Past Refugee Week themes
2023 – 2025: Finding Freedom
2022: Healing
2021: Unity
2020: Year of Welcome
2019: A World of Stories
2018: #WithRefugees
2015-2017: With courage let us all combine
2012-2014: Restoring Hope
2009-2011: Freedom from Fear
2008: A Place to Call Home
2007: The Voices of Young Refugees
2006: Journeys
2005: Different Past, Shared Future
2004: A Journey of Understanding Towards Hope and Respect
