The 2029 Bicentenary Planning Advisory Group
The WA Government appointed three Western Australian community organisations and advisors in April 2026 to help shape how the State will commemorate the Bicentenary and reflect Western Australia’s diversity, vibrancy, and future aspirations. This group will help shape a respectful and inclusive Bicentenary, by ensuring that diverse voices from metropolitan, regional, and remote communities are represented throughout the planning process.
The Bicentenary Planning Advisory Group (BPAG) is made up of representatives from:
- Department of the Premier and Cabinet
- Department of Creative Industries, Tourism and Sport
- Office of Multicultural Interests
- Heritage Council of WA
- Lotterywest
The community organisations appointed to the planning advisory group are:
- Reconciliation WA
- Community Arts Network
- Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company
BPAG will continue to provide advice through the consultation phase before concluding its work at the end of 2026.
Community organisations and consultation
Community consultation is being led by Reconciliation WA, the Community Arts Network and Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company.
These three organisations were appointed to the Bicentenary Planning Advisory Group following an expression-of-interest process in early 2026. They were chosen for their strong cultural leadership and ability to engage and share the voices of people across WA.
Each organisation is receiving a grant to undertake community and stakeholder engagement across Western Australia throughout 2026. Insights from this consultation will inform recommendations on the Bicentenary’s themes, priorities and approaches.
Learn more about each organisation involved:
Reconciliation WA
Reconciliation WA is a not-for-profit organisation, focusing on providing leadership and support to people and groups working towards reconciliation in WA.
Community Arts Network
The Community Arts Network (CAN) works with communities around WA to help them share their experiences that have not been spoken or written about, through creating powerful pieces of art.
Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company
Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company supports Aboriginal theatre and culture and is committed to fostering the next generation of Aboriginal artists and sharing incredible stories.
Visit the Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company website
The 2029 Bicentenary Committee
The 2029 Committee has been established in November 2026 to provide independent strategic advice to the WA Government on priorities, opportunities, funding and risks for the State’s Bicentenary. Its role is to support a coordinated, inclusive and culturally respectful program of events and initiatives across Western Australia.
The 2029 Committee builds on the work of the Bicentenary Planning Advisory Group (BPAG), which helped establish the project and guide consultation activities.
2029 Bicentenary Committee members
Chair: Professor Colleen Hayward
Professor Hayward is a respected Noongar leader, educator and advocate. As committee Chair, her extensive experience and well-established networks position her strongly to engage with stakeholders and provide independent advice to inform the Government’s approach towards, and during 2029.
Deputy Chair: Hon Brendon Grylls AM
Mr Grylls brings extensive experience in government, regional development, strategic program oversight and stakeholder engagement, including as Western Australia's former Minister for Regional Development.
Further Committee members will be announced.
How can I get involved?
An online survey was open to the public until 31 October 2026, and the information gathered through it will be used to help shape the planning of the Bicentenary. Future opportunities to get involved will be added on this website once available.
Frequently asked questions
How can I stay up to date on Bicentenary planning?
Show moreWA.gov.au/2029 and these pages will be the place to check back for more information about the 2029 Bicentenary as updates will be published as they become available.
Can I get in touch with questions about the 2029 Bicentenary?
Show moreFor questions on the 2029 Bicentenary, please contact 2029@dpc.wa.gov.au.
