Commonwealth Day, observed on Canberra Day, was marked in Canberra with a vibrant multi-faith service at the Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture (ACCC). Well over 200 members of the Canberra community gathered for the occasion, bringing together residents, community leaders, diplomats and representatives of faith groups to celebrate the diversity and shared values of the 56-nation Commonwealth.
Governor-General Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC delivering the King’s Commonwealth Day message at the Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture in Canberra.
A highlight of the event was the reading of King Charles III’s 2026 Commonwealth Day message by Australia’s Governor-General, Hon Sam Mostyn. She also added reflections of her own on the importance of the Commonwealth family across the world, and the way the day brings Australians in all their diversity together in a spirit of unity.
In the message, The King reflected on the Commonwealth as a unique family of nations spanning every continent and ocean, united by principles of democracy, justice, compassion and mutual respect. He noted that the world faces increasing pressures—from conflict to climate change and rapid global transformation—but emphasised that it is in such moments that the enduring spirit of the Commonwealth becomes most evident. The King encouraged member nations to continue working together so the Commonwealth remains a force for good, committed to “restorative sustainability” and strengthened by friendship and cooperation. The full message can be read here: The King's Commonwealth Day Message 2026
Commonwealth Day Celebration Committee Chair Kanti Jinna OAM
The Canberra Multifaith Celebration with the Commonwealth theme of “Unlocking Opportunities Together for a Prosperous Commonwealth” featured the delivery of the Commonwealth Day message from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, presented by David Smith MP, Member for Bean. The President of The Royal Commonwealth Society ACT Hon. Professor Matthew Neuhaus, addressed the gathering and reflected on the theme and highlighting the important example the Commonwealth spirit of unity in diversity, which speaks to a world of chaos and conflict. At the end of the event, Commonwealth Day Celebration Committee Chair Kanti Jinna OAM gave a warm vote of thanks to the Governor General and all participants, and to Dr Peter Sherlock, Sarah Stitt and the ACCC for its generous support and hosting.
Cultural preformance by Cook-Island dancers
The service blended formal messages with cultural performances that reflected the diversity of the national capital. Fijian Lali drums welcomed the Governor-General, while the Papua New Guinea Peroveta singers of Canberra performed traditional hymns. Passion & Purpose Academy showcased Afro and hip-hop dance celebrating youth diversity, and Prosperous Mountain Dragon and Lion Dance presented a traditional Chinese lion dance performance. Polynesian dance by Te Hani O Tiare and Indian classical dance by Renga Nrithyalaya added to the rich cultural program, while A Chorus of Women performed “Ubuntu,” a song celebrating the interconnectedness of humanity.
Multi-faith prayers from Jewish, Baha’i, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Islamic, Jain and Sikh representatives highlighted Canberra’s inclusive community spirit. With High Commissioners of Commonwealth Nations and residents gathered, the celebration reflected Canberra’s unique role as Australia’s diplomatic capital and demonstrated how the Commonwealth’s ideals of friendship, cooperation and shared purpose continue to resonate within Canberra’s diverse community.
Report by: President RCS ACT Hon. Professor Matthew Neuhaus /Hon. Secretary Michael Keating
