Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, families, organisations and government agencies will gather at the Adelaide Showground this week for Closing the Gap Day 2026, a free event designed to connect people with services, celebrate culture and strengthen collaboration across South Australia.
Hosted by Nunkuwarrin Yunti, the event will take place on Thursday 19 March from 10am to 3pm at the Goyder Pavilion, bringing together support services in health, education, employment and social services in one family-friendly setting.
This year’s event aligns with the goals of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, shining a light on the inequalities still experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples while also creating space for connection, visibility and community-led action.
For the first time, Nunkuwarrin Yunti will host the event on Kaurna Yerta, with the day set to feature live entertainment, cultural activities, community market stalls, children’s activities and opportunities to engage directly with organisations delivering support across the state.
Nunkuwarrin Yunti Chief Executive Officer Toby Dodd said the day was about far more than bringing services into one place.
“At Nunkuwarrin Yunti, we see Closing the Gap Day as a powerful platform for collaboration. It’s not only a celebration of community strength and resilience, but an invitation for governments, service providers, businesses and philanthropies to walk alongside Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations.”
The event partners for 2026 are Tackling Indigenous Smoking, the Aboriginal Health Council of South Australia, and SAACCON, with sponsorship support from SA Health and the National Indigenous Australians Agency.
AHCSA Deputy CEO Nathan Rigney said this year’s event also comes during an important milestone for the organisation.
“On Closing the Gap Day, AHCSA proudly stands with Nunkuwarrin Yunti of South Australia Inc., recognising the strength of Aboriginal leadership, community control and the ongoing work to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for our community. This year also marks a significant milestone for AHCSA as we celebrate 25 years since incorporation, with self-determination remaining central to our work.”
The program is packed with attractions for all ages. Attendees can expect a Welcome to Country ceremony, free health screenings, arts and crafts for kids, native animals, a ninja course, market stalls and live performances throughout the day.
The entertainment lineup includes headline act Marlon Motlop and band, alongside performances by Nancy Bates, Tilly Tjala Thomas, Katie Aspel, Bec Gollan, Jusst and Eddie Peters. Hosting duties will be shared by Kevin Kropinyeri and Eisha Anderson, while sporting personalities from Port Adelaide, Adelaide Crows and Basketball SA will also make appearances.
Entry is free, with food available subject to availability, and registered ticket holders will also be able to access free public transport between 8.30am and 5pm on the day.
Community members, families and organisations are being encouraged to attend, connect and learn more about the programs and services available across South Australia.
Closing the Gap Day 2026 will be held at the Goyder Pavilion, Adelaide Showground, on Thursday 19 March from 10am to 3pm. Entry is free, with registration encouraged via the official event website.
More details: https://closingthegapday.net/
