Help shape the WA 2029 Bicentenary – share your thoughts
We invite Western Australians to share their thoughts on the 2029 WA Bicentenary. Your feedback will help inform planning and ensure the program reflects the experiences, histories and aspirations of people from across Western Australia. Complete the short survey online by 31 October 2026.
What is the 2029 Bicentenary?
The Bicentenary in 2029 will mark 200 years since the establishment of the Swan River Colony – a defining moment in Western Australia’s history, but not the beginning of our story. As we look to the State’s Bicentenary in 2029, we have an opportunity to reflect on our shared history and what defines us all as Western Australians – sharing our stories, embracing who we are today, and strengthening connections across the State as we move forward together.
Leading into, and throughout 2029, a range of initiatives and activities acknowledging our history, celebrating the diversity of our community and looking forward to a future grounded in reconciliation and unity will be delivered as part of a statewide program.
How is WA planning for the 2029 Bicentenary?
A Bicentenary Planning Advisory Group has been established to guide, support and provide advice on the development of themes, priorities, approaches and planning efforts to mark the Bicentenary. The work of this group will ensure that diverse voices and communities inform the planning process.
Consultation with communities across metropolitan, regional and remote Western Australia is being undertaken throughout 2026, to inform a shared vision for commemoration.
Reconciliation WA, the Community Arts Network and Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company will lead the community consultation, to support culturally-respectful, inclusive and community-led planning. Feedback from consultation will inform recommendations for the Bicentenary’s themes and priorities.
Objectives of the 2029 Bicentenary
These objectives outline a direction that will help guide decision-making, prioritise initiatives and maximise positive engagement by the WA community in the lead up to, during and beyond 2029.
Through consultation, we are seeking community input on how to bring these objectives to life:
1. Elevating our rich Aboriginal heritage and the unique experience of Aboriginal people in this place
Recognising a history far older than 200 years, sharing stories, acknowledging the past, and supporting reconciliation. Ensuring culturally respectful engagement with all stakeholders, to build a shared vision for 2029, then planning and delivering initiatives together.
2. Recognising our shared history and building social cohesion by celebrating the positive contributions people of all backgrounds have made to shaping modern Western Australia
Promoting social cohesion and belonging through the recognition and celebration of the unique contributions of all Western Australians, including Aboriginal Western Australians and all who have travelled to Western Australia to make it home. Celebrating the diversity of modern Western Australia, through the inclusion and involvement of the whole community.
3. Supporting communities statewide to commemorate and participate before, during, and after 2029
Moving beyond just a single date or location-specific event by fostering connections and collaboration throughout WA. Supporting community events and initiatives in the greater Perth metropolitan area and the seven regional cities outside of Perth, as well as the smaller towns and remote communities that make up our State.
4. Showcasing Western Australia's unique identity
Emphasising what sets WA apart: our distinctive lifestyle, strong economy, rich natural resources, pristine landscapes, and world-class tourism offerings – recognised at both national and international levels.
5. Offering accessible education and awareness opportunities
Providing learning opportunities and resources for all Western Australians through story-sharing, school programs, events, and activities.
6. Creating lasting legacies
Connecting 2029 activities, initiatives and learnings to future generations through built form, digital archives, education programs and the preservation of existing legacies in heritage, conservation and historical records.
7. Championing the possible
Imagining and charting a shared vision, that builds upon our successes to date, by ensuring all Western Australians can participate fully in every aspect of WA life – contributing to a State, where, with hope and optimism, everyone benefits from a more prosperous future.
Frequently asked questions
Show moreHow can I get involved?
Share your thoughts to help inform planning for the WA 2029 Bicentenary by completing a short survey before 31 October 2026.
Is there help available to access the survey, or a paper copy available?
We want everyone to be able to participate in the WA 2029 Bicentenary survey.
To have questions read aloud, adjust text size and appearance, or translate to a different language, select Immersive Reader (book-and-speaker icon in the top right corner). You can use this function for each question by clicking on the icon next to the question.
Alternatively, you can download a printable form, and then return it by post once completed.
If you would like a paper copy of the survey sent to you, or have any other accessibility requirements, please contact us.
How do I stay up to date with more information about the 2029 Bicentenary?
Updates will be published here periodically.
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