2026 NAIDOC Cup

13 October 2026

Ms JODIE HARRISON (Charlestown—Minister for Women, Minister for Seniors, and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault)—The NAIDOC Cup is a wonderful celebration of First Nations football, bringing together young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players to showcase their skills, connect with their peers and celebrate culture and community. The tournament saw Under-14 and Under‑16 boys' and girls' teams representing Northern NSW Football compete against teams from Football NSW, providing an important representative pathway for young First Nations footballers. First held in 2022, the NAIDOC Cup continues to grow as an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of young Indigenous athletes while strengthening connections to Country, culture and community. The tournament also brings together families, community Elders, coaches and supporters, highlighting the important role sport plays in fostering inclusion, belonging and opportunity. I had the pleasure of attending the 2026 NAIDOC Cup, held at the Lake Macquarie Regional Football Facility on Awabakal land. It was fantastic to see so many talented young footballers demonstrating their skills, sportsmanship and passion for the game. Congratulations to all the players, coaches and organisers, including Football NSW and Northern NSW Football, involved in making this year's NAIDOC Cup such a successful celebration of First Nations football.

A Community Recognition Notice is an opportunity for an MP to submit a short statement praising the work of an individual or group in the local community. If you have any ideas about people I can recognise with a Community Recognition Notice, please email and let me know!