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Welcome to Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which Sydney New Year’s Eve takes place.

A sailboat with an Aboriginal flag passes in front of the Sydney Opera House at dusk, with city buildings in the background.

Welcome to Country

A living cultural tradition practised on these lands and waterways by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people for thousands of generations. 

A Welcome to Country is conducted by a Traditional Custodian with the responsibility and authority which honours the enduring connections that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have with the lands, waters, skies, cultures and communities. 

We value the profound cultural connection that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have to Country. 

It is a deeply important practice for all of us to understand more about how we respectfully, safely and sustainably live, travel on and care for Country. 

Beginning with a Welcome to Country honours the world's oldest living cultures and invites us to celebrate with respect for the Countries that continue to sustain and connect us all.

What's next

Vantage points map

Find the best spots to watch the fireworks light up the harbour.