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Health Events Calendar

2023 Australian health events.

info This page shows events in 2023. View 2024 events →

January

1 January to 31 January – Veganuary

Throughout the year, Veganuary encourages and supports people and businesses alike to move to a plant-based diet as a way of protecting the environment, preventing animal suffering, and improving the health of millions of people.

4 January – World Braille Day

International World Braille Day is celebrated yearly in recognition of the birth of Louis Braille, born on January 4th, 1809.

24 January – International Day of Education

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 24 January as International Day of Education, in celebration of the role of education for peace and development.

The right to education is enshrined in article 26 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The declaration calls for free and compulsory elementary education. The Convention on the Rights of the Child, adopted in 1989, goes further to stipulate that countries shall make higher education accessible to all.

29 January – World Leprosy Sunday

The last Sunday in January is World Leprosy Day. It is a great opportunity to raise our voice on behalf of those affected by leprosy.

30 January – World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day

On 31 May 2021, the World Health Assembly (WHA) recognized 30 January as World Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) Day through decision WHA74(18). This decision formalized 30 January as a day to create better awareness on the devastating impact of NTDs on the poorest populations around the world.

The day is also an opportunity to call on everyone to support the growing momentum for the control, elimination and eradication of these diseases. Global NTD partners had marked the celebration in January 2021 by organizing various virtual events and also by lighting up landmark monuments and buildings.

February

1 February to 28 February – Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

Held each year in February to educate Australians on ovarian cancer, and raise awareness by sharing the stories of real women affected by the disease.

1 February to 28 February – Febfast

Give up alcohol, sugar or a vice of your own and stand with young Australians experiencing alcohol or other drug issues.

1 February to 28 February – HeartKids Awareness Month

February is HeartKids Awareness Month. HeartKids is trying to raise awareness and funds in Australia about Childhood Heart Disease (CHD), which is one of the biggest killers of children under the age of one.

1 February to 12 February – NSW Seniors Festival

NSW Seniors Festival is the largest festival for seniors in the Southern Hemisphere, reaching up to 500,000 seniors each year. If you are over 60, NSW Seniors Festival gives you the chance to make new friends or get together with old ones at an array of local community events, many which are free or heavily discounted.

1 February to 28 February – RedFeb

This coming February, we invite you to wear RED for someone close to your heart.

Heart disease is Australia’s leading cause of death affecting families and communities around the country.  Can you help us fund much needed life-saving breakthroughs to help us keep families together for longer?

Help us make breakthroughs happen and reduce the devastation heart disease causes families and communities.

2 February – World Wetlands Day

It is urgent that we raise national and global awareness about wetlands in order to reverse their rapid loss and encourage actions to conserve and restore them. World Wetlands Day is the ideal time to increase people’s understanding of these critically important ecosystems.

“Revive and restore degraded wetlands” is the theme for 2023 highlighting the importance of wetlands’ restoration, since well-restored wetlands can provide many of the services performed by the original natural wetland.

An urgent call to take action and to invest financial, human and political capital is this year’s appeal to save the world’s wetlands from disappearing altogether — and to restore those we have already lost.

4 February – World Cancer Day

World Cancer Day is a chance to raise our collective voices in the name of improving general knowledge around cancer and dismissing misconceptions about the disease.

5 February to 11 February – Feeding Tube Awareness Week

The mission of Feeding Tube Awareness Week is to promote the positive benefits of feeding tubes as lifesaving medical interventions. The week also serves to educate the broader public about the medical reasons that children and adults are tube fed, the challenges that families face, and day-to-day life with tube feeding.

6 February – International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation (WHO)

The International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation, on 6 February each year, is a time to make the world aware of female genital mutilation (FGM). According to data from the World Health Organisation (WHO), an estimated 120 to 140 million women have been subject to this harmful practice and 3 million girls continue to be at risk each year. FGM is recognised internationally as a violation of human rights.

6 February to 12 February – Tinnitus Awareness Week

The impact of tinnitus can be devastating. In 2017, the International Tinnitus Journal reported that 45% of tinnitus sufferers experience anxiety and 33% have major depression. Yet, despite its ubiquity, tinnitus is poorly understood and frequently underestimated as a cause of suffering and distress.

Tinnitus Awareness Week, takes place from 6 – 12 February 2023, with our Tea for Tinnitus fundraising event on 9 February.

7 February – Safer Internet Day

Safer Internet Day is a global event that brings together communities, families, schools and organisations from more than 200 countries to help create safer online spaces.

This worldwide initiative is celebrating 20 years in 2023, making it a great time to reflect as well as look forward. 

10 February – World Pulses Day

#WorldPulsesDay #LovePulses

Recognizing their value, on 20 December 2013, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution (A/RES/68/231) proclaiming 2016 as the International Year of Pulses (IYP).

The celebration of the year, led by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), increased the public awareness of the nutritional and environmental benefits of pulses as part of sustainable food production.

11 February – International Day of Women and Girls in Science

The United Nations have proclaimed February 11 the International Day of Women and Girls in Science aiming to ensure full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls.

12 February – International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism

In its resolution 77/243, the General Assembly decided to declare 12 February the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism, in order to raise awareness of the threats linked to violent extremism, as and when conducive to terrorism, and to enhance international cooperation in this regard.

13 February – World Radio Day

On World Radio Day 2023, UNESCO highlights independent radio as a pillar for conflict prevention and peacebuilding.

An armed conflict between countries or groups within a country may also translate into a conflict of media narratives. The narrative can either increase tensions or maintain conditions for peace. 

In reporting and informing the general public, radio stations shape public opinion and frame a narrative that can influence domestic and international situations and decision-making processes.

Increasing radio’s journalistic standards and capacity should be considered as an investment in peace.

14 February – Sweetheart Day

HeartKids Australia is launching Sweetheart Day on 14 February to raise awareness of childhood heart disease and encourage donations to continue our work in providing support, advocacy, growing awareness and enabling further research into CHD.

14 February – National Condom Day

National Condom Day is celebrated each year to remind us that one of the easiest ways to look after your health, and the health of your sexual partners, is to use a cheap, readily available form of contraception that also protects against sexually transmissible infections (STIs).

20 February – World Day of Social Justice

The General Assembly recognizes that social development and social justice are indispensable for the achievement and maintenance of peace and security within and among nations and that, in turn, social development and social justice cannot be attained in the absence of peace and security, or in the absence of respect for all human rights and fundamental freedoms.

21 February – International Mother Language Day

International Mother Language Day recognizes that languages and multilingualism can advance inclusion, and the Sustainable Development Goals’ focus on leaving no one behind. 

UNESCO encourages and promotes multilingual education based on mother tongue or first language. It is a type of education that begins in the language that the learner masters most and then gradually introduces other languages.

This approach enables learners whose mother tongue is different from the language of instruction to bridge the gap between home and school, to discover the school environment in a familiar language, and thus, learn better.

28 February – Summer’s Day

On this day each year stop and remember all the children who lost their lives as a result of an unintentional injury, and acknowledge those children and families living with the consequences of preventable injury.

28 February – Rare Disease Day

Rare Disease Day is the globally-coordinated movement on rare diseases, working towards equity in social opportunity, healthcare, and access to diagnosis and therapies for people living with a rare disease.

March

1 March – Zero Discrimination Day

Zero Discrimination Day highlights how people can become informed about and promote inclusion, compassion, peace and, above all, a movement for change. Zero Discrimination Day is helping to create a global movement of solidarity to end all forms of discrimination.

1 March to 31 March – Melanoma March

Melanoma March celebrates Melanoma Institute Australia’s major annual fundraising campaign. Each Melanoma March brings together melanoma patients, their families, and local communities to raise awareness and funds for research to reach our goal of zero deaths from melanoma – a goal we believe we can reach this decade.

1 March to 31 March – March Into Yellow

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month. March into Yellow encourages our broader community to show their support for the invisible illness by adorning themselves in the colour yellow. It is also a fun way to raise funds for Endometriosis Australia who support endometriosis education and research.

1 March to 31 March – The March Charge

The March Charge is a fun, personal fitness challenge that has an enormous impact on how cancer is researched and treated. Just by walking or running for Cancer Council this March, and by raising funds you can help us Charge ahead with research and support services. Choose to Charge solo or get your friends, family, or colleagues together and do it as a team – it’s up to you.

1 March to 31 March – Endometriosis Awareness Month

March into Yellow is a fun and easy way to open up a conversation about the disease and an opportunity for our community to show support.

March into Yellow encourages our broader community to show their support for the invisible illness by adorning themselves in the colour yellow. It is also a fun way to raise funds for Endometriosis Australia who support endometriosis education and research.

3 March – World Hearing Day

World Hearing Day in Australia is held on 3 March each year to raise awareness of how to prevent deafness and hearing loss, and to promote better ear protection and health across the world.

3 March – World Wildlife Day

World Wildlife Day is on March 3 every year to raise awareness of endangered animals and plants, and ways to fight against wildlife crime.

4 March – World Obesity Day

Obesity is a disease. We are raising awareness and improving understanding of its root causes and the actions needed to address them.

5 March – Clean Up Australia Day

Clean Up Australia inspires and empowers communities to clean up, fix up and conserve our environment. 

More than 20 million Aussies have participated in Clean Up Australia activities and events over the past three decades.

Over that time Clean Up Australia has evolved to provide practical solutions to help all Australians live more sustainably every day of the year, and emerged as one of the country’s most recognised, credible and trusted environmental charities.

8 March – International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is annually held on March 8 to celebrate women’s achievements throughout history and across nations.

9 March – National Day of Women Living with HIV

Each year, on March 9th, the National Network of Women Living with HIV celebrate the lives of women with HIV in Australia. We use this day to educate the wider community that HIV does affect women in Australia and to speak to our network about issues of importance.

9 March – World Kidney Day

World Kidney Day is a global campaign aimed at raising awareness of the importance of our kidneys.

World Kidney Day comes back every year. All across the globe many hundred events take place from public screenings in Argentina to Zumba marathons in Malaysia. We do it all to create awareness. Awareness about preventive behaviors, awareness about risk factors, and awareness about how to live with a kidney disease.

We do this because we want kidney health for all.

World Kidney Day is a joint initiative of the International Society of Nephrology  (ISN) and the International Federation of Kidney Foundations – World Kidney Alliance (IFKF-WKA).

9 March – International School Meals Day

International School Meals Day (ISMD) is a unique campaign with the aim of raising awareness of good nutrition for all children regardless of their circumstances.

Since December 2010, the UK and USA have been sharing examples of policy and practices in promoting healthy eating in schools. With similar challenges and successes on both sides of the Atlantic, both wanted to find a way to raise awareness of the importance of good nutrition amongst children and foster healthy eating habits both at home and at school – and so, International School Meals Day emerged.

Since its launch in 2013, it has brought together teachers and students, policy makers, school cooks, chefs, food and nutrition professionals, schools and communities, charities, businesses and health professionals from around the world to talk about the importance of school meals and its impact on wellbeing and education.

12 March to 18 March – World Glaucoma Week

World Glaucoma Week is a unique initiative that puts a spotlight on glaucoma as the leading cause of preventable irreversible blindness worldwide. The prompt diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma can prevent needless vision impairment, however, so many are unaware they have the disease or may not have access to much-needed care.

13 March to 20 March – Coeliac Awareness Week 

Coeliac Awareness Week (CAW) is held annually on 13-20 March. The national campaign is Coeliac Australia’s premier event of the year that aims to raise awareness of coeliac disease and increase testing and diagnosis rates in Australia.

13 March to 19 March – Neurodiversity Celebration Week

Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences. It aims to transform how neurodivergent individuals are perceived and supported by providing schools, universities, and organisations with the opportunity to recognise the many talents and advantages of being neurodivergent, while creating more inclusive and equitable cultures that celebrate differences and empower every individual.

15 March to 4 November – Swallowing Awareness Day

Around one million Australians have a swallowing difficulty. Swallowing problems can occur at any stage of life. However, the knowledge of dysphagia and its implications remain largely unknown for most Australians. Swallowing Awareness Day is an opportunity to bring attention to swallowing disorders and to connect people with speech pathologists, the professionals who can help.

15 March to 23 March – World Salt Awareness Week

We have known for some time now that too much salt can harm our health, leading to unnecessary deaths from heart attacks and strokes. Salt reduction has been a feature of UK food policy for two decades, and is accepted globally as a cost effective strategy to improve public health.

The UK’s salt reduction model has inspired the world and to date, more than 90 countries now have some form of salt reduction policy in place. 

Salt reduction policies targeted specifically at the food industry are necessary and proportional: three quarters of the salt the nation eats each day is already in packaged and prepared foods. This cannot be removed by the consumer, so simply telling people to eat less salt will not work when our food is full of it.

15 March to 19 March – World’s Greatest Shave

Blood cancer is Australia’s hidden cancer crisis. Every day, 53 Aussies are diagnosed with blood cancer, and 16 will lose their life. People with blood cancer need you now more than ever. 

You have the power to take action, and raise crucial funds that will give families facing blood cancer all the support and information they need – while driving breakthrough research projects discovering better ways to diagnose and treat blood cancer.

By signing up to World’s Greatest Shave, you’ll be changing the lives of those who need your help most and it might change yours along the way.

Now that’s something worth raising your clippers, scissors or hair dye to.

15 March – International Day to Combat Islamophobia

Islamophobia is a fear, prejudice and hatred of Muslims that leads to provocation, hostility and intolerance by means of threatening, harassment, abuse, incitement and intimidation of Muslims and non-Muslims, both in the online and offline world. Motivated by institutional, ideological, political and religious hostility that transcends into structural and cultural racism, it targets the symbols and markers of being a Muslim.

The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution sponsored by 60 Member-States of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which designated 15 March as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia. The document stresses that terrorism and violent extremism cannot and should not be associated with any religion, nationality, civilization, or ethnic group. It calls for a global dialogue on the promotion of a culture of tolerance and peace, based on respect for human rights and for the diversity of religions and belief.

Marking the first International Day to Combat Islamophobia in 2021, UN Secretary-General António Guterres pointed out that anti-Muslim bigotry is part of a larger trend of a resurgence in ethno-nationalism, neo-Nazism, stigma and hate speech targeting vulnerable populations including Muslims, Jews, some minority Christian communities, as well as others. “As the Holy Quran reminds us:  nations and tribes were created to know one another. Diversity is a richness, not a threat,” he added.

In response to the alarming trend of rising hate speech around the world, Secretary-General António Guterres launched the United Nations Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech.

16 March – National Close the Gap Day

Close the Gap is a social justice ” peoples ” campaign that was launched in April 2007 . The Campaign was launched following Professor Tom Calma’s 2005 Social Justice report which emphasised health as a human right. And the signing of the “Statement of Intent” with the Australian Government.

17 March – World Sleep Day

This annual event highlights the importance of sleep health and encourages the public to prioritise sleep to improve their overall health and well-being.

17 March – National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence

The National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence (NDA) connects schools and communities to find workable solutions to prevent bullying.

The NDA is Australia’s key bullying prevention initiative for schools, encouraging whole-school communities to work together to implement evidence-informed positive and proactive solutions to prevent and address bullying.

NDA is permanently moving to the third Friday in August. In 2023, this will be Friday 18 August.

The NDA theme for 2023 is ‘growing connections’. This theme supports research findings that strong school community connections and social skills are protective factors in the prevention of bullying and help enable positive, help-seeking behaviours in students.

18 March – Global Recycling Day

Global Recycling Day was created in 2018 to help recognise, and celebrate, the importance recycling plays in preserving our precious primary resources and securing the future of our planet. It is a day for the world to come together and put the planet first.

The mission of Global Recycling Day, as set out by the Global Recycling Foundation, is twofold:
1. To tell world leaders that recycling is simply too important not to be a global issue, and that a common, joined up approach to recycling is urgently needed.

2. To ask people across the planet to think resource, not waste, when it comes to the goods around us – until this happens, we simply won’t award recycled goods the true value and repurpose they deserve.

19 March to 26 March – Multiple Birth Awareness Week

Multiple Birth Awareness Week (MBAW) is a national campaign to raise awareness around, and draw attention to, the unique realities for multiple birth families in Australia – and how advocacy, positive education and engaged communities can contribute to enabling positive health outcomes for families with multiples.

20 March to 31 March – A Taste of Harmony

A Taste of Harmony is an opportunity to celebrate your workplace’s cultural diversity. It is free to participate and easy to organise. Join over 8,000 other workplaces, big and small, city or remote who will all be taking part in recognising and celebrating their cultural diversity.

20 March – International Day of Happiness

With our world facing unprecedented challenges, wellbeing matters more than ever. When we choose to take action to help others, they benefit, we benefit and we set an example of kindness that can ripple out into the world too.

20 March – World Oral Health Day

On the 20 March every year, we ask the world to unite to help reduce the burden of oral diseases, which affect individuals, health systems and economies everywhere. Its purpose: to empower people with the knowledge, tools and confidence to secure good oral health.

20 March to 26 March – National Advance Care Planning Week

National Advance Care Planning WeekTM encourages you, regardless of your age or health status, to make your future health care preferences known.

Our campaign challenges everyone to discuss what living well means to you and to consider who you would want to speak for you, if you could no longer communicate or make your own health care decisions. It’s been successful in starting tough but important conversations across the country.

We hope you will be able to help us build awareness during National Advance Care Planning Week, which will run between 20 – 26 March.

20 March to 26 March – Harmony Week

Harmony Week is the celebration that recognises our diversity and brings together Australians from all different backgrounds. It’s about inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone.​

To participate, you can wear orange to show your support, or you can attend/host a Harmony Week event.

21 March – World Down Syndrome Day

World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) , 21 March, is a global awareness day which has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012. The date for WDSD being the 21st day of the 3rd month, was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome.

21 March – International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed annually on the day the police in Sharpeville, South Africa, opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration against apartheid “pass laws” in 1960.

21 March – International Day of the Forests

March 21 is the United Nations’ (UN) International Day of Forests, which promotes the importance of forests and trees in our lives. The day addresses issues such as deforestation.

21 March – World Social Work Day

World Social Work Day is on the 21st of March 2023. It is the key day in the year that social workers worldwide stand together to advance our common message globally.

22 March – World Water Day

World Water Day celebrates water and raises awareness of the 2.2 billion people living without access to safe water. It is about taking action to tackle the global water crisis. A core focus of World Water Day is to support the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 6: water and sanitation for all by 2030.

24 March – World Tuberculosis Day

Each year we commemorate World TB Day to raise public awareness about the devastating health, social and economic consequences of tuberculosis (TB) and to step up efforts to end the global TB epidemic. The date marks the day in 1882 when Dr. Robert Koch announced that he had discovered the bacterium that causes TB, which opened the way towards diagnosing and curing this disease.

24 March – National Ride2School Day

National Ride2School Day is Australia’s biggest celebration of active travel and one of the best days on the school calendar. It is a day full of fun and colour where students, teachers and parents discover the joy of riding and kick-start healthy habits for the future.

25 March – Earth Hour

Every year hundreds of millions of people around the world in more than 7,000 cities in over 190 countries take part by switching off for 60 minutes as a symbolic gesture of solidarity to show they care about our planet’s future.
 
This year, Earth Hour is at 8.30pm local time Saturday 25 March. We’re inviting all Australians to sign up to  #ShapeOurFuture and join a worldwide community of millions supporting stronger action on climate change. Individual actions can benefit our planet, while symbolically demonstrating support for a renewable future for our country, and for the world. 
 
You could:
– Switch to solar power.
– Switching your ride
– Or just #SwitchOff your lights for Earth Hour to show your support for greater action on climate change.

26 March – Purple Day

Purple Day is a global initiative dedicated to raising epilepsy awareness, dispelling myths, and increasing support for people living with epilepsy. Founded in 2008 by nine-year-old Cassidy Megan of Nova Scotia, Canada, the Purple Day concept was born out of Cassidy’s own struggles with epilepsy, her motivation to get people talking about the condition, and her desire to let those impacted by seizures know that they are not alone. Cassidy named the day ‘Purple Day’ after the internationally recognised colour for epilepsy, lavender.

Since that time, Purple Day has grown into a much loved and supported national awareness day with thousands of people across Australia rallying their private, academic, and corporate communities to raise much needed awareness and funds to provide services for more than 250,000 Australians currently living with epilepsy.

April

2 April – World Autism Awareness Day

World Autism Awareness Day is an internationally recognized day on April 2 every year, encouraging Member States of the United Nations to take measures to raise awareness about people with autism spectrum disorder throughout the world.

5 April – International Day of Conscience

The task of constructing a culture of peace requires comprehensive educational, cultural, social and civic action, in which each person has something to learn and something to give and share. It addresses all ages and all groups; it is an open-minded global strategy with a specific purpose, namely, to make a culture of peace inseparable from culture per se and to take root in people’s hearts and minds. Peace is not only the absence of differences and conflicts. It is a positive, dynamic, participatory process linked intrinsically to democracy, justice and development for all by which differences are respected, dialogue is encouraged and conflicts are constantly transformed by non-violent means into new avenues of cooperation.

Based on this broadest and most positive meaning of peace, a culture of peace is a set of values, attitudes, traditions and customs, modes of behaviour and ways of life that reflect and are directed towards respect for life, for human beings and their rights, the rejection of violence in all its forms, the recognition of the equal rights of men and women, the recognition of the rights of everyone to freedom of expression, opinion and information, attachment to the principles of democracy, freedom, justice, development for all, tolerance, solidarity, pluralism and acceptance of differences and understanding between nations, between ethnic, religious, cultural and other groups and between individuals.

7 April – World Health Day

World Health Day is celebrated annually and each year draws attention to a specific health topic of concern to people all over the world. The date of 7 April marks the anniversary of the founding of WHO in 1948.

11 April – World Parkinsons’s Day

April Is Parkinson’s Awareness Month April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month with World Parkinson’s Day recognised on 11 April each year Today in Australia, 37 people will hear the words ‘you have Parkinson’s’ for the very first time. That’s more than one person every hour, of every day.

14 April – World Chagas Disease Day

Chagas disease, also known as “silent or silenced disease”, affects mainly poor people without access to health care or people without a political voice.

The disease progresses slowly and often shows an asymptomatic clinical course. Without treatment, Chagas disease can lead to severe cardiac and digestive alterations and become fatal. Raising awareness of the disease is essential to improve the rates of early treatment and cure, together with the interruption of its transmission.

The World Chagas Disease Day was celebrated for the first time in 2020.

17 April – World Hemophilia Day

Every year on 17 April World Haemophilia Day is recognised worldwide to increase awareness of haemophilia, von Willebrand disease and other inherited bleeding disorders. This is a critical effort since with increased awareness comes better diagnosis and access to care for the millions who remain without treatment.
 
World Haemophilia Day was started in 1989 by the World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH), which chose 17 April as the day to bring the community together in honour of WFH founder Frank Schnabel’s birthday.

17 April to 30 April – Nature Play Week

Nature Play Week (NPW) is a yearly week-long signature event that celebrates initiatives of all shapes and sizes to reconnect kids with nature and the outdoors.

19 April – Youth Homelessness Matters Day

Youth Homelessness Matters Day (YHMD) has been an exciting campaign since its inception in 1990. Started by a group of social advocates who believed that too many young people were moving out of home with nowhere to go, the day has since grown into a national celebration of young people’s resilience.

20 April to 30 April – NSW Youth Week

Youth Week is an opportunity for young people to express their ideas and views, act on issues that affect their lives, and create and enjoy activities and events.

21 April – World Creativity and Innovation Day

There may be no universal understanding of creativity. The concept is open to interpretation from artistic expression to problem-solving in the context of economic, social and sustainable development. Therefore, the United Nations designated 21 April as World Creativity and Innovation Day to raise the awareness of the role of creativity and innovation in all aspects of human development.

22 April – International Mother Earth Day

For this International Mother Earth Day, let’s remimd ourselves – more than ever – that we need a shift to a more sustainable economy that works for both people and the planet. Let’s promote harmony with nature and the Earth. Join the global movement to restore our world!

24 April to 30 April – World Immunization Week

World Immunization Week, celebrated in the last week of April, aims to highlight the collective action needed and to promote the use of vaccines to protect people of all ages against disease.

25 April – World Malaria Day

World Malaria Day is an occasion to highlight the need for continued investment and sustained political commitment for malaria prevention and control.

28 April – World Day for Safety and Health at Work

The annual World Day for Safety and Health at Work on 28 April promotes the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases globally.

28 April – Pay it Forward Day

Pay It Forward Day is a global initiative that exists to make a difference by creating a huge ripple of kindness felt across the world.

May

1 May to 31 May – Lung Health Awareness Month

We lose 45 Australians to lung disease and lung cancer every day. Anyone can be affected, no matter your age or background. It’s never too late to start looking after your lungs. Take the time to check your lung health this Lung Health Awareness Month.

1 May to 31 May – The May 50k

The May 50K is a virtual fitness and fundraising challenge to help you achieve your health and fitness goals. You can take part in your own time, at your own pace and in and around your local area. All funds raised will support life-changing research into the prevention, treatment and finding a cure for multiple sclerosis.

1 May to 31 May – Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Month

May is a chance for Australians to understand a little more about what it is like to live with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, collectively known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Many people living with these illnesses stay silent about the day-to-day issues they face but during May, we can help them speak up.

1 May to 31 May – Tracky Dack Day

Funds raised from Tracky Dack Day will provide practical relief to sick kids and their families. No sick child should be put on a waiting list to get help. No child should be excluded on the basis of their illness, disability or age. No family should go without support in times of crisis.

1 May to 31 May – Macula Month

May is Macula Month, our annual awareness campaign to help Australians understand their risk of macular diseases. When you understand your risk, and know what to do, you can take early action that could save your sight.

1 May to 31 May – Miracle Month of May

Miracle Month of May is a time to highlight the work of Miracle Babies supporting premature and sick newborns, their families and the hospitals who care for them. As well as the stories of Australia’s littlest miracles.

1 May to 31 May – Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Month

This May is a chance for Australians to understand a little more about what it is like to live with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, collectively known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Many people living with these illnesses stay silent about the day-to-day issues they face but during May, we can help them speak up.

2 May – World Asthma Day

Air pollution, from traffic exhaust to your gas cook-top, can be damaging our lungs and your general health. When we breathe in certain air pollutants, the risk of developing conditions like asthma, heart or lung disease and cancer can increase.

2 May to 8 May – Heart Week

Heart Week provides an opportunity for health professionals and the Australian public to start a conversation about heart health and take steps to reduce their risk of heart disease. 

5 May – World Hand Hygiene Day

World Hand Hygiene Day aims to maintain global promotion, visibility and sustainability of hand hygiene in health care and to bring people together in support of hand hygiene improvement around the world.

5 May – International Day of the Midwife

International Day of the Midwife is celebrated each year on 5 May. This is a chance for midwives to celebrate their profession and for all of us to recognise their work and contribution to maternal and newborn health.

6 May – #NODIETDAY

May 6th is #NoDietDay, an annual social media campaign to encourage the rejection of diet culture. This movement, started by Mary Evans Young in 1992, celebrates the importance of body acceptance, diversity, and respect for all body shapes and sizes.

7 May to 13 May – International Compost Awareness Week

International Compost Awareness Week Australia (ICAW), is a week of activities, events and publicity to improve awareness of the importance of  compost, a valuable organic resource and to promote compost use, knowledge and products. We can compost to help scrap carbon pollution by avoiding landfilling organic materials and helping to build healthier soils.

8 May – World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day

8 May is World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day—a global day to celebrate the uniqueness and unity of our International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

8 May – International Thalassaemia Day

Celebrated on the 8th of May, the International Thalassaemia Day is devoted to raising awareness amongst the general public and decision-makers about thalassaemia, promoting and strengthening the lifelong and difficult struggle of patients against this severe blood disease, and commemorating all the people who are no longer with us, while renewing our promise to keep fighting until the final cure for thalassaemia is found.

10 May – World Lupus Day

World Lupus Day serves to call attention to the impact that lupus has on people around the world. The annual observance focuses on the need for improved patient healthcare services, increased research into the causes of and cure for lupus, earlier diagnosis and treatment of lupus, and better epidemiological data on lupus globally.

12 May – International Nurses Day

As the single largest workforce group, nurses are there at every turn, making a real difference to the care and the experience of patients and their families and carers. International Nurses Day is celebrated each year on 12 May, on the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing.

12 May – International Awareness Day for Chronic Immunological and Neurological Diseases

May 12th has been designated as International Awareness Day for Chronic Immunological and Neurological Diseases (CIND) since 1992. The CIND illnesses include Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), Fibromyalgia (FM), Gulf War Syndrome (GWS) and Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS).

12 May – International Day of Plant Health

Both our health and the health of our planet depend on plants. Plants make up 80% of the food we eat and 98% of the oxygen we breathe and yet they are under threat.  Up to 40% of food crops are lost due to plant pests and diseases every year. This is affecting both food security and agriculture, the main source of income for vulnerable rural communities.  

Climate change and human activities are altering ecosystems and damaging biodiversity while creating new niches for pests to thrive. International travel and trade, which has tripled in volume in the last decade, is also spreading pests and diseases. We need to protect plants both for people and the planet, and all of us have a role to play. 

15 May – International Day of Families

Held on 15th May every year, the International Day of Families was established by the United Nations in 1993 as a way to raise awareness of issues faced by families throughout the world.

15 May to 21 May – National Families Week

Each year, over a hundred thousand people and hundreds of organisations celebrate National Families Week (15-21 May) – Australia’s annual celebration of families.

15 May to 21 May – National Volunteer Week

National Volunteer Week (NVW) is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteers and their important contribution to our communities.

16 May – International Day of Living Together in Peace

Living together in peace is all about accepting differences and having the ability to listen to, recognize, respect and appreciate others, as well as living in a peaceful and united way.

17 May – WOW Day – Wear Orange Wednesday

Wednesday 17 May, 2023 is Wear Orange Wednesday or ‘WOW Day’. On this day we encourage communities across Australia to wear orange and thank all SES volunteers who generously give their time to help communities during flood and storm emergencies.

19 May – World IBD Day

World IBD Day takes place on 19 May each year and unites people worldwide in their fight against Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, known as inflammatory bowel diseases.

19 May – Pirate Day

Jump aboard and help us turn the tide on childhood brain cancer for The Kids’ Cancer Project.

20 May – World Bee Day

Pollinators allow many plants, including many food crops, to reproduce. Indeed, the food that we eat, such as fruits and vegetables, directly relies on pollinators. A world without pollinators would equal a world without food diversity – no blueberries, coffee, chocolate, cucumbers and so much more.

They also serve as sentinels for emergent environmental risks, signaling the health of local ecosystems.

21 May to 28 May – Food Allergy Week

Australia has the highest incidence of food allergy in the world, and it’s growing at a rapid rate. We estimate that there are 800,000 Australians with a diagnosed food allergy, and many more undiagnosed.

Food Allergy Week is an initiative of A&AA and is dedicated to promoting community understanding of food allergy to help protect those at risk. 

22 May – International Day for Biological Diversity

On May 22, 1992, the text of the Convention on Biological Diversity was adopted by the of the United Nations at a conference in Nairobi, Kenya. Since 2001, the International Day for Biological Diversity is celebrated each year on the anniversary of this date.

22 May to 28 May – Exercise Right Week

Exercise Right Week is an annual awareness campaign held in the last full week of May every year. Since it’s inception in 2014, the campaign has aimed to highlight the benefits of exercise for health and well-being, and to help Australians to understand where to get the “right” advice for their individual needs.

23 May – International Day to End Obstetric Fistula

Obstetric fistula is one of the most serious and tragic childbirth injuries. A hole between the birth canal and bladder and/or rectum, it is caused by prolonged, obstructed labour without access to timely, high-quality medical treatment. It leaves women with incontinence problems, and often leads to chronic medical problems, depression, social isolation and deepening poverty.

This problem is preventable with the correct medical assistance and its occurrence is a violation of human rights and a reminder of gross inequities.

We must put an end to the obstetric fistula as a critical step towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and realizing the promise of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action as well as the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development. Both plans are oriented to fight for women’s rights, including the sexual and reproductive health.

In order to reach this goal, the UN Population Fund has launched an updated manual that serves as a crucial resource and a guiding light on the path to achieving health, gender equality and human rights for all.

25 May to 31 May – Kidney Health Week

Kidney Health Week aims to raise awareness about kidney disease in Australia.
Kidney disease has a big impact on Australians; it is the 10th most common cause of death in Australia. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, over 50 people die from kidney related disease every day.

25 May to 31 May – International Thyroid Awareness Week

International Thyroid Awareness Week (ITAW), celebrated each year from May 25th to 31th, is an annual campaign that aims at raising awareness of early recognition and adequate treatment of thyroid disorders to prevent further complications.

25 May – Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea

Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea is a community event that raises vital funds to make a big difference for those impacted by cancer.

26 May – National Sorry Day

Every year on 26 May, National Sorry Day remembers and acknowledges the mistreatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who were forcibly removed from their families and communities, which we now know as ‘The Stolen Generations’.

27 May to 3 June – National Reconciliation Week

National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

27 May – Don’t Fry Day

To help reduce rising rates of skin cancer from overexposure to the ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun, the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention has designated the Friday before Memorial Day as “Don’t Fry Day” to encourage sun safety awareness and to remind everyone to protect their skin while enjoying the outdoors.

29 May – International Day of UN Peacekeepers

Every day, United Nations peacekeepers work to protect hundreds of thousands of vulnerable people in the world’s most fragile political and security situations.

30 May – World MS Day

World MS Day brings the global MS community together on May 30 to share stories, raise awareness and campaign with everyone affected by multiple sclerosis (MS).

31 May – World No Tobacco Day

This yearly celebration informs the public on the dangers of using tobacco, the business practices of tobacco companies, what WHO is doing to fight the tobacco epidemic, and what people around the world can do to claim their right to health and healthy living and to protect future generations.

June

1 June to 30 June – Bowel Cancer Awareness Month and Red Apple Day

June is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month – Bowel Cancer Australia’s signature event to raise awareness of Australia’s second deadliest cancer and funds for the leading community-funded charity dedicated to prevention, early diagnosis, research, quality treatment and the best care for everyone affected by bowel cancer.

1 June to 30 June – National Burns Awareness Month

National Burns Awareness Month (NBAM) aims to drive greater awareness amongst the Australian community of burns prevention and the correct first aid treatment for burns.

1 June – Global Day of Parents

On June 1st, the United Nations celebrated Global Day of Parents, raising awareness of the importance of parenthood, its role in providing protection, and the tools needed for children’s positive development.

1 June to 7 June – World Haemochromatosis Week

In the first week of June each year we join with members of Haemochromatosis International, the international alliance of haemochromatosis support groups, to create a worldwide, coordinated haemochromatosis awareness campaign in each member country. Using all forms of media, displays, and other activities, this week is an opportunity to focus attention on haemochromatosis and the risk of inherited iron overload.

1 June to 30 June – PRIDE Month

Every June, Pride Month celebrates the diversity of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex community. It’s a time to reflect on just how far civil rights have progressed in half a century and an opportunity to protest discrimination and violence. Australia is at the forefront of the push towards true equality and inclusion for LGBTI people, but there is more to do.

1 June to 31 August – Beard Season

Blokes are two times more likely to die from skin cancer in Australia than women. Thankfully, over 98% of skin cancers can be successfully treated if they’re found early. 

The 1st of June until the 31st of August is not only the ideal time to let your facial follicles flourish, it’s also the best time of year to get your skin checked. Right after summer.

Less sun means moles are easier to spot, treatment is generally more successful and appointments are (hopefully) a lot easier to make.

3 June – World Bicycle Day

World Bicycle Day draws attention to the benefits of using the bicycle — a simple, affordable, clean and environmentally fit sustainable means of transportation.

5 June – World Environment Day

Led by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) and held annually on 5 June since 1973, World Environment Day is the largest global platform for environmental public outreach and is celebrated by millions of people across the world.

5 June – World Orthoptic Day

The International Orthoptic Association (IOA) is the global voice of the orthoptic profession which internationally is made up of 15-member national professional organisations and 6 associate member organizations.

IOA World Orthoptic Day is the opportunity to heighten the visibility of the orthoptic profession and to promote the activities of orthoptists locally, nationally, and internationally.

5 June to 11 June – World Allergy Week

World Allergy Week is a global campaign of the World Allergy Organisation (WAO), which aims to raise awareness of the impact of allergic diseases in our communities. 

6 June to 12 June – World Heart Rhythm Week

This year, World Heart Rhythm Week runs from the 6-12th of June, with the goal of spreading awareness of arrhythmias to our community and healthcare professionals.

An arrhythmia is classified as an abnormal heart rhythm, when the heart beats too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or irregular in its pace. The condition is caused by incorrectly functioning electrical impulses within the heart; however, arrhythmias can affect even a perfectly healthy heart.

Heart arrhythmias are categorised by the speed of the heart rate and the term arrhythmia covers a broad range of more specific conditions.

7 June – World Food Safety Day

Food safety is a shared responsibility between governments, producers and consumers. Everybody has a role to play from farm to table to ensure the food we consume is safe and will not cause damages to our health. Through the World Food Safety Day, WHO pursues its efforts to mainstream food safety in the public agenda and reduce the burden of foodborne diseases globally.

8 June to 9 June – World Oceans Day

World Oceans Day reminds every one of the major role the oceans have in everyday life. They are the lungs of our Planet and a major source of food and medicine and a critical part of the biosphere.

The purpose of the Day is to inform the public of the impact of human actions on the ocean, develop a worldwide movement of citizens for the ocean, and mobilize and unite the world’s population on a project for the sustainable management of the world’s oceans.

12 June to 18 June – Men’s Health Week

Men’s Health Week focuses on not just physical health, but also men’s mental health and emotional wellbeing. During the week, we highlight the health challenges faced by men in Australia and worldwide and run events that can be replicated year-round to improve the physical, emotional and mental health of men and boys. Through a series of promotions, events and publicity around the country, Men’s Health Week is designed to provoke thought and discussion about what needs to be done to improve male health.

12 June – World Day Against Child Labour

Children around the world are routinely engaged in paid and unpaid forms of work that are not harmful to them. However, they are classified as child labourers when they are either too young to work, or are involved in hazardous activities that may compromise their physical, mental, social or educational development. In the least developed countries, slightly more than one in four children (ages 5 to 17) are engaged in labour that is considered detrimental to their health and development.

In July 2019, the General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution declaring 2021 as the International Year for the Elimination of Child Labour, and has asked the International Labour Organization to take the lead in its implementation. The international year will be an ideal opportunity to reinvigorate efforts to achieve SDG Target 8.7 to end all forms of child labour by 2025.

13 June to 19 June – Walk for Him

You can help PCFA take the next big step forward for men with prostate cancer by supporting life-saving awareness, early diagnosis and treatments.

Step out and step up during Men’s Health Week – take 49,000 steps during the week in solidarity with men and families.

13 June to 19 June – National Blood Donor Week

Over 8.3 million Australians will need blood in their lifetime.
When you give blood, you’re more than just a donor. You’re the Lifeblood of your community. Your football team. Your family. Your book club. Your neighbourhood.

You’re the Lifeblood of Australia.

13 June – International Albinism Awareness Day

Albinism is a rare, non-contagious, genetically inherited difference present at birth. In almost all types of albinism, both parents must carry the gene for it to be passed on, even if they do not have albinism themselves. The condition is found in both sexes regardless of ethnicity and in all countries of the world.

Albinism results in a lack of pigmentation (melanin) in the hair, skin and eyes, causing vulnerability to the sun and bright light. As a result, almost all people with albinism are visually impaired and are prone to developing skin cancer. There is no cure for the absence of melanin that is central to albinism.

The United Nations Human Rights Council adopted a resolution in 2013 (A/HRC/RES/23/13) calling for the prevention of attacks and discrimination against persons with albinism. Moreover, in response to the call from civil society organizations advocating to consider persons with albinism as a specific group with particular needs that require special attention, the Council created the mandate of the Independent Expert on the enjoyment of human rights by persons with albinism.

14 June – World Blood Donor Day

Every year countries around the world celebrate World Blood Donor Day (WBDD). The event serves to raise awareness of the need for safe blood and blood products and to thank voluntary, unpaid blood donors for their life-saving gifts of blood.

15 June – World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is commemorated each year on 15 June to highlight one of the worst manifestations of ageism and inequality in our society, elder abuse.

15 June – International Cleaners Day

International Cleaners Day, on Thursday 15 June, is a special opportunity to recognise the remarkable efforts of more than 1,500 cleaners working for HealthShare NSW.

The work our cleaners do in Patient Support Services is paramount to ensuring the safety and well-being of NSW Health facilities. Their contributions play a critical role in upholding the standards of care within our healthcare system.

17 June – World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought

Droughts are among the greatest threats to sustainable development, especially in developing countries, but increasingly so in developed nations too. In fact, forecasts estimate that by 2050 droughts may affect over three-quarters of the world’s population.

The number and duration of droughts has increased by 29 percent since 2000, as compared to the two previous decades (WMO 2021). When more than 2.3 billion people already face water stress, this is a huge problem. More and more of us will be living in areas with extreme water shortages, including an estimated one in four children by 2040 (UNICEF). No country is immune to drought (UN-Water 2021).

18 June – International Day for Countering Hate Speech

Hate speech is on the rise worldwide with the potential to incite violence, undermine social cohesion and tolerance, and cause psychological, emotional, and physical harm to those affected.

Hate speech not only affects the specific individuals and groups targeted, but societies at large.

The devastating effect of hatred is sadly nothing new. However, its scale and impact are amplified today by new technologies of communication, so much so that hate speech, has become one of the most frequent methods for spreading divisive rhetoric and ideologies on a global scale. If left unchecked, hate speech can even harm peace and development, as it lays the ground for conflicts and tensions, wide scale human rights violations.

In July 2021, the UN General Assembly highlighted global concerns over “the exponential spread and proliferation of hate speech” around the world and adopted a resolution on “promoting inter-religious and intercultural dialogue and tolerance in countering hate speech”.

The resolution recognizes the need to counter discrimination, xenophobia and hate speech and calls on all relevant actors, including States, to increase their efforts to address this phenomenon, in line with international human rights law.

The resolution proclaimed 18 June as the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, which will be marked for the first time in 2022.

18 June – Sustainable Gastronomy Day

Gastronomy is sometimes called the art of food. It can also refer to a style of cooking from a particular region. In other words, gastronomy often refers to local food and cuisine. Sustainability is the idea that something (e.g. agriculture, fishing or even preparation of food) is done in a way that is not wasteful of our natural resources and can be continued into the future without being detrimental to our environment or health.

Sustainable gastronomy, therefore, means cuisine that takes into account where the ingredients are from, how the food is grown and how it gets to our markets and eventually to our plates.

The UN General Assembly adopted on 21 December 2016 its resolution A/RES/71/246 and designated 18 June as an international observance, Sustainable Gastronomy Day.

The decision acknowledges gastronomy as a cultural expression related to the natural and cultural diversity of the world.

19 June to 25 June – National Stomal Therapy Week

National Stomal Therapy Week (NSTW) is designed to both acknowledge and provide support to people living with a stoma and recognise those health professionals and support agencies involved in their care.

19 June – World Sickle Cell Day

Under recommendation by a United Nations Resolution in 2008, World Sickle Cell Day has been celebrated globally every year on June 19th to raise awareness of sickle cell disease, also known as sickle cell anaemia, recognising the disease as a global public health concern.

20 June – World Refugee Day

World Refugee Day is an international day designated by the United Nations to honour refugees around the globe. It falls each year on June 20 and celebrates the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home country to escape conflict or persecution. World Refugee Day is an occasion to build empathy and understanding for their plight and to recognize their resilience in rebuilding their lives.

21 June – MND Global Awareness Day

June 21 every year is MND/ALS Global Awareness Day. MND/ALS Associations across the world use the day to raise awareness of the disease to the general public. The day is also used to express hope that one day there will be a turning point in the search for cause, treatment and cure of this disease.

21 June – International Day of Yoga

Yoga is an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in India. The word ‘yoga’ derives from Sanskrit and means to join or to unite, symbolizing the union of body and consciousness.

Today it is practiced in various forms around the world and continues to grow in popularity.
Recognizing its universal appeal, on 11 December 2014, the United Nations proclaimed 21 June as the International Day of Yoga by resolution 69/131.

The International Day of Yoga aims to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga.

22 June – World Rainforest Day

Founded in 2017 by Rainforest Partnership, World Rainforest Day recognizes standing, healthy forests as one of the most powerful and cost-effective climate change mitigation tools we have — and creates a global movement to protect and restore them.

We connect forest-focused organizations with new partners, non-environmental sectors to the forest, and aspiring rainforest guardians to impact pathways. Our partner network consists of rainforest organizations, indigenous groups, policy representatives, youth leaders, the private sector, creative guilds, and more, collaborating and innovating for more holistic forest protection.

29 June – World Scleroderma Day

Each year on 29th Juen the world’s scleroderma community comes together to recognize World Scleroderma Day. On this day in 1940, internationally renowned Swiss painter Paul Klee died. He had scleroderma and his artwork was widely influenced by his experience with the condition.

July

1 July to 31 July – Dry July

Dry July is a fundraiser that encourages you to go alcohol-free in July to raise funds for people affected by cancer.

The funds you raise as part of your Dry July will provide invaluable services for cancer patients, their families and carers – whether it’s a lift to a life-saving appointment, guidance from a specialist nurse, connection to an informative voice, access to therapy programs or a bed close to treatment.

Having a month off alcohol also has great health benefits, such as sleeping better, having more energy and of course, no hangovers! So you’re not only helping others, you’re helping yourself. It’s a win-win!

2 July to 9 July – NAIDOC Week

National NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia in the first week of July each year (Sunday to Sunday), to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories and participate in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth.

11 July – World Population Day

In an ideal world, 8 billion people means 8 billion opportunities for healthier societies empowered by rights and choices. But the playing field is not and has never been even. Based on gender, ethnicity, class, religion, sexual orientation, disability and origin, among other factors, too many are still exposed to discrimination, harassment and violence. We do ourselves no favors when neglecting those left behind.

Let no alarmist headline distract from the work at hand: investing in human and physical capital for inclusive, productive societies that uphold human and reproductive rights. Only then can we tackle the enormous challenges facing our planet and forge a world where health, dignity and education are rights and realities, not privileges and empty promises. In a world of 8 billion, there must always be space for possibility.
 

16 July to 23 July – Birth Trauma Awareness Week

Birth Trauma Awareness Week (BTAW) is held in July each year. The theme for 2023 is Postpartum Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Postpartum PTSD remains largely unknown and mis/underdiagnosed despite it occurring in up to 15% of parents in the first six months post-birth. This means that women, birthing people, fathers, and non-birthing parents are still falling through the gaps in healthcare and may not be receiving the best treatment for their needs. 

21 July – National Pyjama Day

National Pyjama Day is all about wearing your favourite pyjamas to work or school (and everywhere in-between!) to help raise funds and awareness for children in foster care.

This year, National Pyjama Day falls on Friday 21 July 2023 but you are welcome to host your day anytime throughout July-September.

The aim of the day is to raise as much funds as possible for The Pyjama Foundation’s Love of Learning Program which is offered to children in foster care – Australia’s lowest performing educational group.

23 July to 30 July – DonateLife Week

DonateLife Week plays a vital role in encouraging more Australians to register to be an organ and tissue donor. 

With your support, we can amplify our campaign and encourage more Australians to get behind organ and tissue donation. 

Our 2 asks for Australia this DonateLife Week are: 
1. Could you donate 1 minute to give someone a lifetime? Register now at donatelife.gov.au or with just 3 easy taps in your Medicare app. 
2. Don’t forget to tell your family you want to be a donor, someone’s life may depend on it. 

24 July to 30 July – National Pain Week

National Pain Week is Australia’s annual awareness event for chronic pain. National Pain Week takes place in the last week of July each year. National Pain Week 2023 will run from 24-30 July 2023.

25 July – World Drowning Prevention Day

World Drowning Prevention is held annually on 25 July. This global advocacy event serves as an opportunity to highlight the tragic and profound impact of drowning on families and communities and to offer life-saving solutions to prevent it.

28 July – World Hepatitis Day

In Australia, World Hepatitis Day is coordinated by the national peak body Hepatitis Australia to raise awareness and promote action on viral hepatitis. Hepatitis Australia’s vision is to see an end to viral hepatitis in Australia.

The aim for World Hepatitis Day 2023 in Australia is to mobilise action on the elimination of viral hepatitis in Australia supported by national coordination.

28 July – Schools Tree Day

Schools Tree Day is celebrated on Friday 28th July 2023, but you can register your event any time of year that suits your climate.

Tree Day is a great way to inspire students to learn about the local environment while playing an active role in their community.

30 July – International Day of Friendship

To mark the International Day of Friendship the UN encourages governments, international organizations and civil society groups to hold events, activities and initiatives that contribute to the efforts of the international community towards promoting a dialogue among civilizations, solidarity, mutual understanding and reconciliation.

30 July – Schools Tree Day

Schools Tree Day is celebrated on Friday 30th July 2023, but you can register your event any time of year that suits your climate.

Tree Day is a great way to inspire students to learn about the local environment while playing an active role in their community.

Activities range from planting bush tucker gardens, building habitat for native wildlife, nature play, and our annual school competition.

30 July – National Tree Day

Planet Ark’s National Tree Day started in 1996 and has grown into Australia’s largest community tree planting and nature care event.

It’s a call to action for all Australians to get their hands dirty and give back to the community.

August

1 August to 31 August – Dying to Know Day

An annual campaign that empowers Australians at all stages of life to live and die well. During August, people hold events, gatherings at home, take individual action, and much more, all to improve their knowledge around choice at end of life.

1 August to 31 August – Tradies National Health Month

This August marks the APA’s tenth Tradies National Health Month, an awareness initiative that focuses on the importance of tradies health.

Based on research, demonstrates that 60% of tradies often have aches and pains as a result of their job and, that a decrease in physical health can have a negative impact on mental health2.

1 August to 31 August – MS Readathon

Reading can take kids on incredible journeys of discovery, awakens their imagination, and builds their confidence. It is never too early or too late to help them find inspiration and motivation to pick up a book.

The MS Readathon has been inspiring kids to read more for 45 years, and this August, it will be more fun than ever before. 

1 August to 7 August – World Breastfeeding Week

World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) is a global network of individuals and organisations dedicated to the protection, promotion and support of breastfeeding worldwide.

Annually, WABA coordinates and organises the World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) between Aug 1-7. Since 2016, we have aligned our WBW campaign to United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

1 August to 7 August – National Homelessness Week

National Homelessness Week (1-7 August) raises awareness of homelessness in Australia and the importance of social housing as a long-term solution.

4 August – Jeans for Genes

1 in 20 kids faces a birth defect or genetic disease, like cancer, cystic fibrosis, and life-threatening metabolic disorders. That’s 12 kids born every minute worldwide. Help us find treatments and cures by making a donation, buying gear or fundraising for us.

4 August – National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day

The Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care (SNAICC) is the National Voice for our Children. As the national peak body, we have a responsibility to make our children’s voices as powerful as possible, now and into the future. A First Nations Voice enshrined in the Constitution will amplify the work being done to ensure our children can flourish, with power over their destinies. 

This year’s National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day theme ‘Little Voices, Loud Futures’ fires that ambition. 

7 August to 13 August – Dental Health Week

Dental Health Week (DHW) is the Australian Dental Association’s (ADA) major annual oral health campaign. It takes place each year in the first full week of August.

The campaign focuses on the importance of taking steps to care for your teeth and gums to help you to keep your teeth and smile for life.

7 August to 13 August – National Stroke Week

National Stroke Week 2023 encourages the community to fight stroke together so that you or your loved one’s can continue to enjoy life during and after recovery.

Fighting stroke together aims to bring people together to share knowledge, support and resources to help prevent strokes from occurring and to aid in the recovery process for those who have experienced a stroke.

Help others to keep enjoying life too by sharing the F.A.S.T. (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) signs of stroke with your family and friends. If you or someone you know experiences the signs of stroke, no matter how long they last, call triple zero (000) immediately.

7 August to 13 August – Landcare Week

Landcare Week is an annual celebration of landcare held during the first week of August to acknowledge the Australians who are actively restoring, enhancing and protecting the natural environment in their community.

The theme for this year’s Landcare Week is: ‘Be inspired, be empowered, be a landcarer’.

7 August to 13 August – Keep Australia Beautiful Week

Every August, for over 50 years, Keep Australia Beautiful have been educating Australian’s about litter, waste and other key environmental issues throughout KABWeek. During this week we aim to engage and challenge the community, while encouraging long term change behaviour that can be adopted well after the week is done.

7 August to 13 August – Loneliness Awareness Week Australia

Right now, more than 6 million Australians feel lonely. That’s 1 in 3 people.

This year, for Australia’s first Loneliness Awareness Week, we’re shining a spotlight on the millions of Australians who are #LonelyNotAlone by sharing real stories and facts, and we’re encouraging everyone to take steps towards connection.

9 August – International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples

There are an estimated 476 million indigenous peoples in the world living across 90 countries. They make up less than 5 per cent of the world’s population, but account for 15 per cent of the poorest. They speak an overwhelming majority of the world’s estimated 7,000 languages and represent 5,000 different cultures.

Indigenous peoples are inheritors and practitioners of unique cultures and ways of relating to people and the environment. They have retained social, cultural, economic and political characteristics that are distinct from those of the dominant societies in which they live. Despite their cultural differences, indigenous peoples from around the world share common problems related to the protection of their rights as distinct peoples.

Indigenous peoples have sought recognition of their identities, their way of life and their right to traditional lands, territories and natural resources for years. Yet, throughout history, their rights have been violated. Indigenous peoples today, are arguably among the most disadvantaged and vulnerable groups of people in the world. The international community now recognizes that special measures are required to protect their rights and maintain their distinct cultures and way of life.

In order to raise awareness of the needs of these population groups, every 9 August commemorates the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, chosen in recognition of the first meeting of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations held in Geneva in 1982.

11 August – Red Nose Day

Every year on the second Friday in August, we invite Australians everywhere to get silly for a serious cause to raise much needed funds to help stop little lives being cut short and support grieving families. More than 3,000 babies still die suddenly and unexpectedly each year in Australia. We are losing them to stillbirth, SIDS among other things.

13 August to 19 August – Kidney Kar Rally

You can help kids with kidney disease get the care, treatment and support they need.
Sign up for the Kidney Kar Rally.

18 August – International Day Against Bullying and Violence

The National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence (NDA) is Australia’s key bullying prevention initiative for schools, encouraging whole-school communities to work together to implement evidence-informed positive and proactive solutions to prevent and address bullying.

We are excited to announce that from this year, the NDA is permanently moving to the third Friday in August. In 2023, this will be Friday 18 August.

The NDA theme for 2023 is ‘growing connections’. This theme supports research findings that strong school community connections and social skills are protective factors in the prevention of bullying and help enable positive, help-seeking behaviours in students.

20 August to 26 August – Speech Pathology Week

Speech Pathology Week seeks to promote the speech pathology profession and the work done by speech pathologists with the 1.2 million Australians who have a communication disability. Communication is a basic human right and Speech Pathology Week seeks to make more Australians aware of this.

The theme for Speech Pathology Week 2023 will focus on raising awareness of the unique skills, competence and qualities of Certified Practising Speech Pathologist (CPSP) members, the importance of the public seeking services from a CPSP (to denote quality and safety), and to celebrate what it means to be a CPSP.  

21 August to 27 August – Healthy Bones Action Week

This year’s initiative held from 21-27 August encourages Australians to think about their bone health. Primary school is a crucial time for Aussie kids to build strong bones for life and ensure their daily routine includes the three steps to maintaining good bone health.

25 August – Wear it Purple

Wear It Purple strives to foster supportive, safe, empowering and inclusive environments for rainbow young people.

27 August to 2 September – Legacy Week

The Legacy Week appeal has been running since the 1940’s and is a time for all Australians to show their support for the widows and children whose loved ones have served our country.

30 August – Bravehearts Day

Bravehearts Day is Australia’s largest and longest-running campaign dedicated to raising funds and awareness for the prevention and treatment of child sexual abuse. Established in 1997, the day was previously known as Bravehearts White Balloon Day.

Bravehearts Day continues the legacy of White Balloon Day, which is credited for breaking the silence around child sexual abuse and creating a cultural shift in how Australians understand and respond to child sexual abuse and survivors of this crime. 

31 August – Daffodil Day

For all that cancer takes, give all that you can this Daffodil Day Appeal. Join thousands supporting cancer research.

31 August – International Overdose Awareness Day

The world’s annual campaign to end overdose, remember without stigma those who have died, and acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind.

September

1 September to 30 September – Liptember

Since 2010, the “Liptember” flagship fundraising campaign has encouraged people to wear lipstick throughout the month of September as a lighthearted and fun way to raise awareness and vital funds for women’s mental health, raising over $12 million to date.

1 September to 30 September – Biodiversity Month

We celebrate Biodiversity Month every September and promote the importance of:
– connecting with nature and
– caring for nature in all its diversity – its biodiversity!

Nature is valuable and we need nature. It provides the building blocks for our survival, such as food, clean air, water, and shelter. Nature also supports our health and wellbeing, and our economy. And while we need nature, nature also needs us.

1 September to 30 September – World Alzheimer’s Month


Each September, people unite from all corners of the world to raise awareness and to challenge the stigma that persists around Alzheimer’s disease and all types of dementia.

During World Alzheimer’s Month, we call on everyone, from individuals to large organisations, including every Alzheimer and dementia association globally, to support World Alzheimer’s Month by getting involved in some way.   

1 September to 30 September – Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Shine a spotlight on this devastating disease in September.
 
Seventy per cent of Australians are unaware that more kids die from cancer than any other disease in this country. With awareness, comes support. Government funding only stretches so far so it is vital the community step up to help fund the scientific research so urgently needed.

1 September – Gold Bow Day

Gold Bow Day raises awareness about Thyroid Cancer, which is increasing amongst younger Australians.

Be Aware of Symptoms & Changes – If you are concerned please ask your doctor to order a Thyroid Ultrasound and Thyroid Function Pathology

– Research states Thyroid Cancer has increased and particularly in younger Australians. Therefore identifying and diagnosis through ultrasound and pathology is essential.

– Symptoms range from an enlarged or painful thyroid gland, persistent cough, voice changes, trouble swallowing or sleeping due to discomfort need to be investigated.

1 September to 30 September – Dystonia Awareness Month

Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder that makes it difficult for people to control their muscles. It can cause abnormal twisting or positions in part(s) of the body along with muscle spasms and/or tremors. In some people the postures may be fixed or locked in position and in others they can appear from time to time. Pain can be the main symptom in some types of dystonia. Dystonia can affect almost any part of the body. There are many forms of dystonia and many conditions or diseases that include dystonia as part of the symptoms.

1 September to 30 September – Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month

September is Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month. The Australian Gynaecological Cancer Foundation encourages everyone (not just women!) to learn more about gynaecological cancers, the signs and symptoms, where to get support and how you can help us fund research that will save lives.

Every two hours an Australian woman is diagnosed with a gynaecological cancer. These are cancers that involve the female reproductive organs – the vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries and placenta.

The most common gynae cancer is uterine or endometrial cancer. In 2020, the estimated number of new cases diagnosed in Australia was 3,224 women. The second most common is ovarian cancer, which is often referred to as the silent killer as there are often no symptoms of the disease until it is at an advanced stage. 

3 September to 9 September – National Child Protection Week

The aim of Child Protection Week is to bring together partners to focus on addressing the significant harms being experienced by children in Australia. By working collectively to change the trajectory of these children and families, we can reduce the number of children who may come in contact with the child protection system. The time to act is now.

This year National Child Protection Week will continue to champion the message ‘Every child in every community needs a fair go’. 

This message captures the essence of National Child Protection Week which aims to promote a safe and healthy life for every child, now and into the future. 

4 September to 10 September – National Superhero Week

National Superhero Week for Muscular Dystrophy is a week-long event in which people across Australia dress up as their favourite superhero to raise money for a cure.

Heroes of all ages are encouraged to host an event during National Superhero Week from September 4-10, 2023. From kindergartens and schools, to workplaces and community groups. You are never too old to dress up!

4 September – PKD Awareness Day

PKD Awareness Day takes place each year on September 4th and is our day to raise awareness for Polycystic Kidney Disease. Though PKD affects more than 25 thousand Australians and millions worldwide, many people have never heard of this disease. Together, we can change that! The more people that know about PKD, the closer we can get to additional treatments and a cure!

4 September – World Sexual Health Day

“WHO recognizes that people have sex as part of a healthy life and intimate relationships, and not solely for the purpose of reproduction. Our commitment to research, evidence, guidance and enthusiastic promotion of sexual health is essential to every person’s fulfilment of their human rights related to sexuality and well-being.”

Activities led by WHO and the United Nations Special Research Programme HRP include:
– education, counselling and care related to sexuality, sexual identity, and sexual relationships
– addressing sexual function and psychosexual counselling
– promoting positive sexual and psychosocial development
– prevention and control of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV
– prevention and management of cervical and other cancers of the reproductive system.

4 September to 8 September – Women’s Health Week

Women’s Health Week will be held from 4 to 8 September 2023. This year’s program will feature new resources and information on hormones, PCOS, menopause, cervical screening self-collection, heart health, persistent pelvic pain and nutrition. 

Jean Hailes Women’s Health Week is Australia’s largest event dedicated to the health and wellbeing of all women, girls and gender-diverse people.

Every September, over 200,000 people gather in the boardrooms, tearooms and community centres of Australia to share vital, up-to-date health information.

4 September to 10 September – Idiopathic Hypersomnia Awareness Week

The most important annual event for Idiopathic Hypersomnia is the Worldwide Idiopathic Hypersomnia Awareness Week® hosted by Hypersomnolence Australia. It is held annually in the first full week in September.

It is the mission of Worldwide Idiopathic Hypersomnia Awareness Week® to raise awareness and increase the understanding of Idiopathic Hypersomnia (IH). We also aim to help improve the level of education of IH among the general public, people living with IH, and medical professionals. Idiopathic Hypersomnia Awareness Week® is hosted by Hypersomnolence Australia and actively encourages other people and organisations to join in this effort. After all, we have similar goals and we champion this cause for the same reasons. We believe the key to success is a unified voice under one banner.

5 September – International Day of Charity

The International Day of Charity was established with the objective of sensitizing and mobilizing people, NGOs, and stakeholders all around the world to help others through volunteer and philanthropic activities.

The date of 5 September was chosen in order to commemorate the anniversary of the passing away of Mother Teresa of Calcutta, who received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979 “for work undertaken in the struggle to overcome poverty and distress, which also constitute a threat to peace.”

6 September – National Health and Physical Education Day

Australian school children rank among the worst in the world when it comes to their physical activity levels. To tackle this problem, they need to be taught skills and have better knowledge and understanding of how to lead active and healthy lifestyles.

That’s why National Health and Physical Education (HPE) Day has been designed to raise awareness of, and advocate for, a greater focus of HPE in our schools.

The theme of HPE day is Good for Children, Good for Schools and Good for Communities and in 2023 HPE day will be celebrated on Wednesday 6th September 2023!

6 September – Indigenous Literacy Day

Literacy provides a fundamental step of building context, comprehension and understanding, whether it is written, visual or auditory. For kids who miss that foundational step in their literacy journey, it has a lifelong impact. 

In remote Communities across Australia there is often no infrastructure such as libraries or bookstores. Access to reading material is extremely limited and this impacts the achievements of Indigenous children.

ILF’s three programs, Book Supply, Book Buzz and Community Publishing Projects, focus on ensuring access to quality resources, including books in First Languages, publishing Community stories and supporting Communities and families to lead the entire process to ensure leadership, ownership, and authenticity is held with Community Elders and residents.

7 September – International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies

UN Member States recognize the need to substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water and soil pollution and contamination by 2030, as well as to reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management by 2030.

Clean air is important for the health and day-to-day lives of people, while air pollution is the single greatest environmental risk to human health and one of the main avoidable causes of death and disease globally. Air pollution disproportionately affects women, children and older persons, and also has a negative impact on ecosystems.

Today, the international community acknowledges that improving air quality can enhance climate change mitigation and that climate change mitigation efforts can improve air quality.
Encouraged by the increasing interest of the international community in clean air, and emphasizing the need to make further efforts to improve air quality, including reducing air pollution, to protect human health, the General Assembly decided to designate 7 September as the International Day of Clean Air for blue skies

7 September – World Duchenne Awareness Day

The World Duchenne Awareness Day 2023 theme is ‘Duchenne: Breaking Barriers’. World Duchenne Awareness Day (WDAD) is an annual event held on September 7. With this, WDAD supports creating a society that provides equal opportunities for all.

8 September – International Literacy Day

Since 1967, International Literacy Day (ILD) celebrations have taken place annually around the world to remind the public of the importance of literacy as a matter of dignity and human rights, and to advance the literacy agenda towards a more literate and sustainable society. 

Despite steady progress made across the world, literacy challenges persist with at least 763 million young people and adults lacking basic literacy skills in 2020. 

This year’s International Literacy Day will be celebrated worldwide under the theme, ‘Promoting literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies’.   

8 September – World Physiotherapy (PT) Day

World PT Day takes place every year on 8 September. In 2023 the day will focus on arthritis, with an in-depth look at some forms of inflammatory arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis and axial spondyloarthritis.

9 September – World First Aid Day

World First Aid Day is an annual opportunity to highlight the importance of first aid around the globe as an act of humanitarian empowerment and as a key component of a wider resilience approach ; it is an occasion to reach a wider public audience and try to change the way the world thinks about first aid. The Global First Aid Reference Centre is in charge to coordinate this event and provide resources for National Societies.

Since 2000, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and its National Societies have been honoring first aid on the Second Saturday of September of each year. This aims to raise public awareness on how first aid can save lives every day and specially in situations of crisis. For this year, the event will be about digital innovations.

The chosen theme is: First Aid in the Digital World

9 September – International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Awareness Day

People all around the world gather for events to raise awareness about the dangers of drinking during pregnancy and the plight of individuals and families who struggle with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD).  The first FASDay was celebrated on 9/9/99.  This day was chosen so that on the ninth day of the ninth month of the year, the world will remember that during the nine months of pregnancy a woman should abstain from alcohol.  Anytime is a good time to raise awareness about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). 

10 September – World Suicide Prevention Day

World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) was established in 2003 in conjunction with the World Health Organisation (WHO) and is a significant advocacy and communication based event aimed at reaching national organisations, governments and the general public, giving a singular message that suicide can be prevented.

WSPD continues to grow year on year, with recent years seeing the day observed in more than 60 countries with hundreds of events ranging from educational and commemorative events to press briefings and public conferences. 

14 September – R U OK? Day

R U OK? is a public health promotion charity that encourages people to stay connected and have conversations that can help others through difficult times in their lives.

R U OK? contributes to suicide prevention efforts by encouraging people to invest more time in their personal relationships and building the capacity of informal support networks – friends, family and colleagues – to be alert to those around them, have a conversation if they identify signs of distress or difficulty and connect someone to appropriate support, long before they’re in crisis.

16 September – International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer

The ozone layer, a fragile shield of gas, protects the Earth from the harmful portion of the rays of the sun, thus helping preserve life on the planet.

The phaseout of controlled uses of ozone depleting substances and the related reductions have not only helped protect the ozone layer for this and future generations, but have also contributed significantly to global efforts to address climate change; furthermore, it has protected human health and ecosystems by limiting the harmful ultraviolet radiation from reaching the Earth.

The scientific confirmation of the depletion of the ozone layer prompted the international community to establish a mechanism for cooperation to take action to protect the ozone layer. This was formalized in the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer, which was adopted and signed by 28 countries, on 22 March 1985. In September 1987, this led to the drafting of The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.

16 September – World Cleanup Day

World Cleanup Day unites millions of volunteers, governments and organisations in 191 countries to tackle the global waste problem and build up the new and sustainable world.  

17 September – World Patient Safety Day

World Patient Safety Day calls for global solidarity and concerted action by all countries and international partners to improve patient safety.

The Day brings together patients, families, caregivers, communities, health workers, health care leaders and policy-makers to show their commitment to patient safety.

The resolution WHA 72.6 ‘Global action on patient safety’ recognizes patient safety as a global health priority and endorses the establishment of World Patient Safety Day to be observed annually on 17 September.

18 September to 24 September – Dementia Action Week

Dementia Action Week is a major leadership, awareness and advocacy campaign led by Dementia Australia as part of our role as the peak body for people living with dementia, their families and carers in Australia.

18 September to 24 September – National Organic Week

National Organic Week Australia (NOW) is a week of targeted media and locally-held activities designed to increase awareness of the benefits of organic products and farming production systems and accelerate the uptake of these in the wider Australian community and environment.

“As consumers, you want food you can recognise and trust. Buying organic products supports food safety, health, good nutrition and the environment. Products that carry the logo of an accredited organic certification body are guaranteed to be genuine organic.” Costa Georgiadis, Ambassador of National Organic Week.

18 September to 24 September – National Week of Deaf People

The National Week of Deaf People (NWDP) is a week-long national celebration of Deaf individuals and the Australian Deaf community, which includes celebrating the International Week of Deaf People (IWDP) and International Day of Sign Languages (IDSL) which are initiatives of the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD).

These two events are traditionally held during September and are based on the founding date of the WFD (23 September 1951). NWDP is an opportunity for Deaf people to celebrate their communities, language, culture and history; make the public aware of their local, state and national Deaf communities; and to recognise their achievements.

21 September – International Day of Peace

Each year the International Day of Peace is observed around the world on 21 September. The UN General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire.

21 September – World Alzheimer’s Day

World Alzheimer’s Day takes place during World Alzheimer’s Month and is on 21 September every year.
 
In the build up to, and on the day of, many Alzheimer and dementia associations around the world host memory walks, fundraisers, awareness raising activities and campaigns to bring attention towards those in their community that are affected by Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia.  

22 September – World Car-Free Day

Every year on or around 22 September, cities across the globe celebrate World Car-Free Day, encouraging motorists to give up their cars for a day. The event highlights the numerous benefits of going car-free to citizens—including reduced air pollution and the promotion of walking and cycling in a safer environment.

The World Carfree Network says that the World Car-Free Day can be a showcase for just how our cities might look like, feel like, and sound like without car… 365 days a year.

24 September – World Rivers Day

World Rivers Day is a celebration of the world’s waterways. It highlights the many values of rivers and strives to increase public awareness and encourages the improved stewardship of rivers around the world. Rivers in virtually every country face an array of threats, and only through our active involvement can we ensure their health in the years ahead.

25 September – World Pharmacists Day

Monday 25 September 2023 is World Pharmacists Day.  The day is an annual celebration to promote the role of community pharmacists in improving health all over the world and locally in our communities.

28 September – World Rabies Day

World Rabies Day is celebrated annually to raise awareness about rabies prevention and to highlight progress in defeating this horrifying disease.

28 September also marks the anniversary of Louis Pasteur’s death, the French chemist and microbiologist, who developed the first rabies vaccine.

Today, safe and efficacious animal and human vaccines are among the important tools that exist to eliminate human deaths from rabies while awareness is the key driver for success of communities to engage in effective rabies prevention.

29 September – International Day of Awareness on Food Loss and Waste Reduction

Reducing food losses and waste is essential in a world where the number of people affected by hunger has been slowly on the rise since 2014, and tons and tons of edible food are lost and/or wasted every day.
Globally, around 14 percent of food produced is lost between harvest and retail, while an estimated 17 percent of total global food production is wasted (11 percent in households, 5 percent in the food service and 2 percent in retail).

The International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste is an opportunity to call to action both the public (national or local authorities) and the private sector (businesses and individuals), to prioritise actions and move ahead with innovation to reduce food loss and waste towards restoring and building back better and resilient-ready, food systems.

29 September – World Heart Day

WORLD HEART DAY IS A GLOBAL, MULTI-LINGUAL CELEBRATION

Spanning six continents, our hundreds of World Heart Federation (WHF) member organizations, the countless schools, universities, sports clubs and the vibrant cardiology community make World Heart Day (WHD) a truly global celebration.

Every year these groups and individuals bring their local flair, favor and colors to festivities, marking the day by sharing heart healthy regional specialties, leading a dance to get the whole community moving, and sharing life-saving lessons far and wide.

30 September – International Translation Day

International Translation Day is meant as an opportunity to pay tribute to the work of language professionals, which plays an important role in bringing nations together, facilitating dialogue, understanding and cooperation, contributing to development and strengthening world peace and security.

Transposition of a literary or scientific work, including technical work, from one language into another language, professional translation, including translation proper, interpretation and terminology, is indispensable to preserving clarity, a positive climate and productiveness in international public discourse and interpersonal communication.

Thus, on 24 May 2017, the General Assembly adopted resolution 71/288 on the role of language professionals in connecting nations and fostering peace, understanding and development, and declared 30 September as International Translation Day.

October

1 October to 31 October – Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) takes place every October. The aim of the BCAM is to shine a light on the devastating impact breast cancer has on thousands of Australians each day.

Over 20,000 Australians will be diagnosed with the disease this year alone.

That equates to 57 Australians every day.

1 October to 31 October – National Lupus Awareness Month

Lupus Awareness Month takes place during October in Australia every year. It is an important opportunity to raise awareness of the disease.

Building awareness of lupus is essential to improve early diagnosis and treatment of this unpredictable and misunderstood disease, and ensure that people with lupus are aware of the support and resources available to help them manage the disease.

1 October to 31 October – Pink Ribbon Breakfast

Pink Ribbon Breakfast is the National Breast Cancer Foundation’s longest-running signature campaign. The campaign runs throughout the month of October and invites everyday Australians to host an event to raise money for breast cancer research. Our hosts run all types of events such as breakfasts, lunches, and dinners and are held in all states by individuals, businesses, and even schools/community groups. Events differ in size and audience.

1 October – World Vegetarian Day

Every year on October 1st, World Vegetarian Day kicks off a month of parties, potluck, presentations, food tasting displays…and lots of friendly discussions!

For those new to vegetarianism, it serves as an enticement to give meatless fare a try (even for a day) and learn about its many benefits. And, of course, it’s the perfect occasion for vegetarians and those already moving towards plant-based diets to celebrate their healthy, compassionate food choices.

1 October to 31 October – Spina Bifida Awareness Month

October is Spina Bifida Awareness Month — a time to celebrate the hundreds of thousands of people living with Spina Bifida. Every October, we highlight community stories that challenge us to raise more awareness and support for those living with Spina Bifida.  As a community, we can do this by raising awareness about Spina Bifida either in our own circles or larger networks. It’s also a great time for us to challenge ourselves to find new ways to get involved in raising awareness and advocacy activities.

1 October to 31 October – Kidney Health Red Socks Run

A free virtual campaign to raise awareness and funds that can lead to life-changing research, vital support services and treatments for kidney disease.

Run, walk or ride 60km in October while wearing your red socks.

What is the significance of 60km? People who need dialysis treatment to survive are attached to a machine for an average of 60 hours per month. During dialysis, as blood is being filtered by a machine and returned to the body, people get really cold, especially their feet.

1 October to 31 October – National Safe Work Month

October is National Safe Work Month—a time to commit to building a safe and healthy workplace.

Being healthy and safe means being free from physical and psychological harm. A safe and healthy workplace benefits everyone.  

The primary objective of National Safe Work Month is to encourage all individuals and organisations to prioritise safety in their workplaces and work towards reducing the number of work-related injuries, illnesses and fatalities. 

2 October – International Day of Non-Violence

The International Day of Non-Violence is observed on 2 October, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, leader of the Indian independence movement and pioneer of the philosophy and strategy of non-violence.

According to General Assembly resolution A/RES/61/271 of 15 June 2007, which established the commemoration, the International Day is an occasion to “disseminate the message of non-violence, including through education and public awareness”. The resolution reaffirms “the universal relevance of the principle of non-violence” and the desire “to secure a culture of peace, tolerance, understanding and non-violence”.

3 October – World Habitat Day

The United Nations designated the first Monday of October of every year as World Habitat Day to reflect on the state of our habitats, and on the basic right of all to adequate shelter. The Day is also intended to remind the world that we all have the power and the responsibility to shape the future of our cities and towns.

In 1985 the United Nations designated the first Monday of October every year as World Habitat Day. The idea is to reflect on the state of our towns and cities and the basic right of all to adequate shelter. It is also intended to remind the world of its collective responsibility for the future of the human habitat.

6 October – World Cerebral Palsy Day

World Cerebral Palsy Day is a global movement that started in 2012. Last year, it reached over 10 million people. It aims to bring together people living with cerebral palsy, their families, supporters and organisations from over 100 countries. All with the aim to ensure a future in which children and adults with cerebral palsy have the same rights, access and opportunities as anyone else in our society.

Cerebral palsy is a physical disability that affects movement and posture. Many people with cerebral palsy have other related vision, hearing, communication and mobility needs. Its impact can range from a weakness in one hand, to almost a complete lack of voluntary movement.

6 October – World Smile Day

World Smile Day is a fantastic opportunity for everyone around the world to use the universal language of the smile. Smiling is a gesture that is understood across the world, whether you speak the same language or not. Sharing your smile makes you feel good, and makes the other person feel good too.

World Smile Day happens on the first Friday of October every year. The theme of the day is “Do an act of kindness. Help one person smile.” The aim to bring a bit of joy to the world by encouraging people to do random acts of kindness for each other. If everyone does one thing to make someone else smile, the world would be a much kinder and happier place.

10 October – World Mental Health Day

The overall objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health.

The Day provides an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work, and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide.

10 October – World Homeless Day

The purpose of World Homeless Day is to draw attention to the needs of people who experience homelessness locally and provide opportunities for the community to get involved in responding to homelessness, while taking advantage of the stage an ‘international day’ provides – to end homelessness through improved policy and funding.

12 October – World Sight Day

World Sight Day:

– Is an opportunity to focus the world’s attention on eye health as a global issue.

– Raises awareness of eye health amongst individuals, families and communities.

– Is a platform to influence decision makers to prioritise eye health initiatives.

– Helps activate demand for eye health services globally.

World Sight Day is coordinated by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) and supported by almost 200 IAPB Member organisations globally.

15 October – International Day of Rural Women

The crucial role that women and girls play in ensuring the sustainability of rural households and communities, improving rural livelihoods and overall wellbeing, has been increasingly recognized. Women account for a substantial proportion of the agricultural labour force, including informal work, and perform the bulk of unpaid care and domestic work within families and households in rural areas. They make significant contributions to agricultural production, food security and nutrition, land and natural resource management, and building climate resilience.

This International Day, under the theme “Rural women confront the global cost-of-living crisis”, let’s recognize the work of these heroines in the food systems of the world, and let’s claim rural areas with equal opportunities for all.

15 October to 21 October – National Carers Week

National Carers Week is an opportunity to recognise, celebrate and raise awareness about Australia’s 2.65 million carers.

More than one in ten Australians are carers. They make an enormous contribution to our community as well as our national economy.

16 October to 22 October – National Water Week

National Water Week makes a splash across Australia each year by inspiring communities and organisations to work together on water issues and future fixes.   

National Water Week reminds everyone that water must be used wisely – and celebrates water innovation and achievements supporting Australia’s sustainable future. 

17 October – International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

In a world characterized by an unprecedented level of economic development, technological means and financial resources, that millions of persons are living in extreme poverty is a moral outrage. Poverty is not solely an economic issue, but rather a multidimensional phenomenon that encompasses a lack of both income and the basic capabilities to live in dignity.

Persons living in poverty experience many interrelated and mutually reinforcing deprivations that prevent them from realizing their rights and perpetuate their poverty, including:
– dangerous work conditions
– unsafe housing
– lack of nutritious food
– unequal access to justice
– lack of political power
– limited access to health care.

20 October – Developmental Language Disorder Awareness Day

Developmental Language Disorder is a hidden but common disability that affects 1 in 14 people causing difficulties understanding and using language for no known reason. The 2023 DLDday theme is DLD Around the World, highlighting that DLD occurs in every language.

20 October – Loud Shirt Day

For kids with hearing loss, getting the support they need as early as possible will give them the best chance of minimising the long-term effects of their diagnoses and will help them reach their full potential.

You’re invited to make noise and wear it loud for kids with hearing loss. It couldn’t be easier to show your support, all you need to start is a loud shirt!

20 October – World Osteoporosis Day

With this year’s tagline of ‘Build Better Bones’, IOF will highlight the importance of a bone-healthy lifestyle as the foundation for strong bones and a mobile, fracture-free future. New posters and related resources and communications will urge the public and patients to build better bones by ensuring:
– Regular weight-bearing & muscle-strengthening exercise
– A nutritious bone-healthy diet and adequate vitamin D
– No smoking and avoiding excessive alcohol intake
– Early awareness of risk factors – and if at risk, seek testing and treatment if appropriate

As well, the campaign will include the following messages and resources:
– Introduce the new Build Better Bones platform with easy-to-follow exercise and nutrition guidance for people with osteoporosis and their caregivers.
– Raise awareness of the important role of Fracture Liaison Services for people who have already fractured will be reflected in campaign messages and resources.
– Information about the burden of osteoporosis to raise awareness among healthcare professionals and health authorities, who will be urged to ensure that people at fracture risk have timely access to diagnosis and treatment, including post-fracture care.

21 October to 28 October – Children’s Week

The Children’s Week Council of Australia is responsible for encouraging and supporting the widest possible participation of all States and Territories in Children’s Week. Children’s Week is an annual event celebrated in Australia held around the fourth Wednesday in October.  A diverse range of events and activities are organised at National, State and Local levels. These focus the attention of the wider community on children, their rights and achievements. Children’s Week celebrates the right of children to enjoy childhood.

22 October to 29 October – Herbal Medicine Week

This year, herbal medicine week will be running from 22nd – 29th October 2023

The aim of this week is to promote herbal medicine to the public, educate people about herbal medicine, share our knowledge and show people the vital role that herbalists play in community health and wellbeing.

24 October – World Polio Day

World Polio Day highlights the global efforts to end poliomyelitis (polio) worldwide. Polio is a life-threatening disease caused by the poliovirus, which the World Health Assembly committed to eradicate in 1988. The WHO European Region was declared polio-free in 2002 and has sustained this status every year since then.

Every year on 24 October, we observe World Polio Day to raise awareness of the importance of polio vaccination to protect every child from this devastating disease, and to celebrate the many parents, professionals and volunteers whose contributions make polio eradication achievable.

To ensure a polio-free future for everyone, efforts must continue to maintain high immunization coverage, implement high-quality surveillance to detect any presence of the virus, and prepare to respond in the event of an outbreak.

26 October – Blue Knot Day

Blue Knot Day is an Australian national day on which Blue Knot Foundation calls on all Australians to unite in support of the more than 5 million Australian adults who have experienced complex trauma.

Complex trauma includes lots of different often damaging experiences. It also refers to the effects of those experiences. The experiences can occur at any age – in childhood, as a young person, in adulthood and into old age. Examples include violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation or growing up without a person who is able to care for, understand and protect you. Many people experience them repeatedly or over time. The good news is that people can and do recover from the impacts of complex trauma. Many people also develop remarkable resilience and grow beyond their trauma experiences.

Blue Knot Day is held every year on the last Thursday in October. 

27 October – National Bandana Day

Held on the last Friday in October, National Bandanna Day is the flagship fundraising and awareness campaign for Canteen. Since Bandanna Day began it has raised more than $35 million to support young people impacted by cancer.

With your support, funds raised from Bandanna Day will help young people impacted by cancer get access to programs, counselling and peer support.

By joining the movement YOU can stand up to cancer!

27 October – World Occupational Therapy Day

Occupational Therapy Day was first launched on 27th October 2010. Since then, it has become an important date in the occupational therapy calendar to promote and celebrate the profession internationally.

The World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT) is the international voice of the occupational therapy profession which globally comprises of 107 national occupational therapy professional organisations. World Occupational Therapy Day is the opportunity to heighten the visibility of the profession’s development work and to promote the activities of WFOT locally, nationally, and internationally.

29 October – Grandparents Day

Grandparents Day celebrates the diversity of grandparent relationships across age groups, cultural backgrounds, and geographical locations.

Grandparents, grand-friends, kin, and those who take on the role of a grandparent in their family or community are recognised for their contributions.

This is a day to spend time with an older loved one and connect across the generations.

November

1 November to 30 November – Movember

Movember fundraisers are a global community of fired up Mo Bros and Mo Sisters – aka rock stars making a difference in mental health and suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer.

Since 2003, Movember has funded more than 1,250 men’s health projects around the world, challenging the status quo, shaking up men’s health research and transforming the way health services reach and support men.

1 November to 30 November – National Asbestos Awareness Month

National Asbestos Awareness Month (1-30 November) is Australia’s leading multi award-winning asbestos awareness and community education campaign in the prevention of asbestos-related diseases.

With asbestos-related diseases continuing to increase among Australians as a direct result of exposure to asbestos fibres during home renovations or in the workplace; the importance of increasing awareness and educating Australians on how to manage asbestos safely in accordance with regulations cannot be overstated.

1 November to 30 November – CommuniTEA

November is Epilepsy Awareness Month. To celebrate this significant month, we are inviting you to gather with your family, friends, community group or workplace and enjoy an outdoor picnic filled with delicious treats, laughter, and fun! Simply choose what you’d like to do on a day in November and at a time that best suits you!

People can develop epilepsy at any stage of their lives but a large number have their first seizures during childhood or adolescence, or alternatively much later in life.

Your assistance in raising vital funds and awareness will contribute to much-needed support, services and resources all offered to help improve the lives of people with epilepsy and their families. 

5 November – World Tsunami Awareness Day

Tsunamis can be deadly, but they needn’t be. Early warning and early action are effective tools to protect people, saving lives, and preventing the hazard from becoming a disaster. To be effective, tsunami early-warning systems must cover every at-risk person, they must be multi-hazard, and communities must be prepared so they can act quickly.

In December 2015, the UN General Assembly designated 5 November as World Tsunami Awareness Day, calling on countries, international bodies and civil society to raise tsunami awareness and share innovative approaches to risk reduction.

11 November to 18 November – Alopecia Awareness Week

Alopecia Areata Awareness Week is held in the 3rd week of November. This annual event is a great time to spread the word about this condition which is so often misunderstood. Australia Alopecia Areata Foundation hosts a range of events across the country during this week, and invite you to attend, or to host your own event! Some regular highlights include the Boldest Bald Brunch, and the Crazy Hair Day, which takes place in several schools and youth organisations across Australia.

12 November to 18 November – Perinatal Mental Health Week

Join families and organisations across Australia to mark Perinatal Mental Health Week 2023, 12- 18 November.

OUR THEME FOR 2023 IS CONNECTION THROUGH CONVERSATION
Honest and compassionate conversations about perinatal mental health are life changing.

Whether you’re experiencing mental health challenges yourself, or if you’re concerned about a loved one we know that reaching out and talking about the way you’re feeling can be really hard. It can feel tricky to find the right words. You might be worried about the way the person you’re talking to will react, and there’s a lot of fear around getting it wrong. 
 
That’s why this Perinatal Mental Health Week, we want you to know that everyone needs help at some point in their lives, and everyone deserves compassion and support. Reaching out, truly listening and making a connection is more important than getting the words completely perfect. 

13 November – World Kindness Day

World Kindness Day is a global day that promotes the importance of being kind to each other, to yourself, and to the world.

If every Australian performed an act of kindness on World Kindness Day, we would have 25 million acts of kindness in
a single day.

The possibilities are endless – together let’s make Australia kinder.

13 November to 19 November – National Recycling Week

Back since recycling bins were just a small black tub, Planet Ark has been helping Australians recycle right. National Recycling Week (NRW) is one of Planet Ark’s flagship campaigns and every year aims to educate and empower people to do the right thing when they’re at the bin.

Since the campaign was established in 1996, we have held it every year during the second week of November.

14 November – World Diabetes Day

Globally, an estimated 422 million adults were living with diabetes in 2014, compared to 108 million in 1980. The global prevalence of diabetes has nearly doubled since 1980, rising from 4.7% to 8.5% in the adult population. This reflects an increase in associated risk factors such as being overweight or obese. Over the past decade, diabetes prevalence has risen faster in low and middle-income countries than in high-income countries.

Diabetes is a major cause of blindness, kidney failure, heart attack, stroke and lower limb amputation. Healthy diet, physical activity and avoiding tobacco use can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. In addition diabetes can be treated and its consequences avoided or delayed with medication, regular screening and treatment for complications.

In 2007 General Assembly adopted resolution 61/225 designating 14 November as World Diabetes Day. The document recognized “the urgent need to pursue multilateral efforts to promote and improve human health, and provide access to treatment and health-care education.”

16 November – International Day for Tolerance

In 1996, the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution 51/95 proclaiming 16 November as International Day for Tolerance.

This action followed the adoption of a Declaration of Principles on Tolerance by UNESCO’s Member States on 16 November 1995. Among other things, the Declaration affirms that tolerance is neither indulgence nor indifference. It is respect and appreciation of the rich variety of our world’s cultures, our forms of expression and ways of being human.

Tolerance recognizes the universal human rights and fundamental freedoms of others. People are naturally diverse; only tolerance can ensure the survival of mixed communities in every region of the globe.

17 November – Crazy Hair Day

Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss. It can affect anyone at any age, but most commonly occurs during childhood. There is no cure, and the condition can be life-long.  Around half a million Australians will be impacted by this condition in their lives, and yet many people have not heard of it.

17 November – Cervical Cancer Elimination Day

Each year the World Health Organisation joins advocates around the world to commemorate a landmark Day of Action for Cervical Cancer Elimination and welcome groundbreaking new initiatives to end this devastating disease. The global movement to eliminate cervical cancer is driven by the energy, passion and momentum of communities, partners and individuals working towards catalyzing change.

17 November – World Prematurity Day

World Prematurity Day on 17 November is one of the most important days in the year to raise awareness of the challenges and burden of preterm birth globally. The day was initiated by EFCNI and partnering European parent organisations in 2008. Meanwhile, countless individuals and organisations from more than 100 countries join forces with activities, special events and commit to action to help address preterm birth and improve the situation of preterm babies and their families.

Worldwide, one in ten babies are born too early – more than 27,000 each year in Australia alone. Giving birth to a child is one of the paramount, most positive experiences in life. Having a baby born too soon is a significant trauma for families. Preterm birth also represents a severe financial burden for many families and our often struggling healthcare systems.

Raising awareness of preterm birth is the first step to defeating it: Preterm birth rates could be significantly reduced and lowered through overall information and improved treatment and care.

18 November to 24 November – World Antimicrobial Awareness Week

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change over time and no longer respond to medicines, making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness and death. As a result of drug resistance, antibiotics and other antimicrobial medicines become ineffective and infections become increasingly difficult or impossible to treat.

A global action plan to tackle the growing problem of resistance to antibiotics and other antimicrobial medicines was endorsed at the Sixty-eighth World Health Assembly in May 2015. One of the key objectives of the plan is to improve awareness and understanding of AMR through effective communication, education and training.

World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) is a global campaign that is celebrated annually to improve awareness and understanding of AMR and encourage best practices among the public, One Health stakeholders and policymakers, who all play a critical role in reducing the further emergence and spread of AMR. 

18 November to 26 November – Social Inclusion Week

Social Inclusion Week aims to help all Australians feel included and valued, giving everyone the opportunity to participate fully in society.

Social Inclusion Week is about connecting local communities, workmates, family and friends, in order to build and strengthen relationships or networks and address isolation and exclusion of those who may be marginalised. 

19 November – International Men’s Day

International Men’s Day (IMD) is celebrated on 19 November every year and is marked in around 80 countries worldwide.

Some people ask why we need an International Men’s Day? In Australia, IMD is a great opportunity to take part in a global conversation about manhood, masculinity and men’s issues by:
– Highlighting some of the social issues that men and boys face
– Making a difference for the men and boys in your community
– Celebrating men and boys in all their diversity
– Having some serious fun in the process

20 November – World Children’s Day

World Children’s Day was first established in 1954 as Universal Children’s Day and is celebrated on 20 November each year to promote international togetherness, awareness among children worldwide, and improving children’s welfare.

November 20th is an important date as it is the date in 1959 when the UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child. It is also the date in 1989 when the UN General Assembly adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Since 1990, World Children’s Day also marks the anniversary of the date that the UN General Assembly adopted both the Declaration and the Convention on children’s rights.

Mothers and fathers, teachers, nurses and doctors, government leaders and civil society activists, religious and community elders, corporate moguls and media professionals, as well as young people and children themselves, can play an important part in making World Children’s Day relevant for their societies, communities and nations.

World Children’s Day offers each of us an inspirational entry-point to advocate, promote and celebrate children’s rights, translating into dialogues and actions that will build a better world for children.
 

25 November – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

Violence against women and girls (VAWG) is one of the most widespread, persistent and devastating human rights violations in our world today remains largely unreported due to the impunity, silence, stigma and shame surrounding it.

In general terms, it manifests itself in physical, sexual and psychological forms, encompassing:
– intimate partner violence (battering, psychological abuse, marital rape, femicide);
– sexual violence and harassment (rape, forced sexual acts, unwanted sexual advances, child sexual abuse, forced – marriage, street harassment, stalking, cyber- harassment);
– human trafficking (slavery, sexual exploitation);
– female genital mutilation; and
– child marriage.

To further clarify, the Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women issued by the UN General Assembly in 1993, defines violence against women as “any act of gender-based violence that results in, or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women, including threats of such acts, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in public or in private life.”

December

1 December – World AIDS Day

World AIDS Day brings together people from around the world to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and demonstrate international solidarity in the face of the pandemic.

The day is an opportunity for public and private partners to spread awareness about the status of the pandemic and encourage progress in HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and care around the world. It has become one of the most widely recognized international health days and a key opportunity to raise awareness, commemorate those who have died, and celebrate victories such as increased access to treatment and prevention services.

1 December to 31 December – DecembHair

No stubble, no trouble. Head, legs, brows, chest – if it is hair – let it grow, or let it go! 

Create a Decembhair fundraiser by growing, dyeing, trimming or waxing your hair, making or faking some luscious locks, or why not skip your next grooming appointment and let that hair go natural. 

If you are not ready to get hairy, support someone who is and encourage them to find out about bowel cancer and grow hair anywhere!

1 December to 31 December – DecemBeard

Bowel Cancer Australia’s hair-raising fundraiser encouraging you to get hairy while raising awareness and funds to help beat bowel cancer.
 
Face, head, legs, body – if it’s hair – let it grow or let it go!
 
Get beardy or hairy (anywhere) – the options are limitless, and the choice is yours.
– Grow a beard or some chin stubble and promote your facial hair
– Dye, decorate shave or trim your precious hair and create something amazing
– Fake some luscious locks or make a hair-inspired creation
– Donate the amount you spend on shaving/grooming or by skipping your next waxing appointment

You can join the hair-wagon any time, so what are you waiting for?

3 December – International Day of Persons with Disabilities

When we secure the rights of persons with disabilities, we move our world closer to upholding the core values and principles of the United Nations Charter. 

The United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy provides the foundation for sustainable and transformative progress on disability inclusion through all pillars of the work of the United Nations: peace and security, human rights, and development. 

5 December – International Volunteer Day

Volunteerism is one of the most vital delivery mechanisms for social, environmental and economic transformation, ensuring a lasting impact with its ability to change people’s mindsets, attitudes and behaviours.

People become actors of change and equal partners in the attainment of local, national and international progress towards sustainable human development and global peace.

The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme recognizes the shared universal values underpinning volunteerism – free will, commitment, equity, engagement, solidarity, compassion, empathy and respect for others.
 

5 December – World Soil Day

World Soil Day (WSD) is held annually on 5 December as a means to focus attention on the importance of healthy soil and to advocate for the sustainable management of soil resources.

An international day to celebrate soil was recommended by the International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS) in 2002. Under the leadership of the Kingdom of Thailand and within the framework of the Global Soil Partnership, FAO has supported the formal establishment of WSD as a global awareness raising platform.

The FAO Conference unanimously endorsed World Soil Day in June 2013 and requested its official adoption at the 68th UN General Assembly. In December 2013, the UN General Assembly responded by designating 5 December 2014 as the first official World Soil Day.

10 December – Human Rights Day

Human Rights Day is observed every year on 10 December — the day the United Nations General Assembly adopted, in 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

The UDHR is a milestone document, which proclaims the inalienable rights that everyone is entitled to as a human being – regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, language, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status. Available in more than 500 languages, it is the most translated document in the world.

12 December – International Universal Health Coverage Day

On 12 December 2012, the United Nations General Assembly endorsed a resolution urging countries to accelerate progress toward universal health coverage (UHC) – the idea that everyone, everywhere should have access to quality, affordable health care. On 12 December 2017, the United Nations proclaimed 12 December as International Universal Health Coverage Day (UHC Day) by resolution 72/138.

International Universal Health Coverage Day aims to raise awareness of the need for strong and resilient health systems and universal health coverage with multi-stakeholder partners. Each year on 12 December, UHC advocates raise their voices to share the stories of the millions of people still waiting for health, champion what we have achieved so far, call on leaders to make bigger and smarter investments in health, and encourage diverse groups to make commitments to help move the world closer to UHC by 2030.

18 December – International Migrants Day

The UN Migration Agency (IOM) defines a migrant as any person who is moving or has moved across an international border or within a State away from his/her habitual place of residence, regardless of (1) the person’s legal status; (2) whether the movement is voluntary or involuntary; (3) what the causes for the movement are; or (4) what the length of the stay is.

Regardless of the reasons that compel people to move, migrants and displaced people represent some of the most vulnerable and marginalized groups in society, and are often exposed to abuse and exploitation, have limited access to essential services including healthcare, and are faced with xenophobic attacks and stigma fueled by misinformation.

20 December – International Human Solidarity Day

The Sustainable Development Agenda is centred on people & planet, underpinned by human rights and supported by a global partnership determined to lift people out of poverty, hunger and disease. It will, thus, be built on a foundation of global cooperation and solidarity.

International Human Solidarity Day is:
– a day to celebrate our unity in diversity;
– a day to remind governments to respect their commitments to international agreements;
– a day to raise public awareness of the importance of solidarity;
– a day to encourage debate on the ways to promote solidarity for the achievement of the Sustainable
Development Goals including poverty eradication;
– a day of action to encourage new initiatives for poverty eradication.

27 December – International Day of Epidemic Preparedness

The UN General Assembly invites all Member States, organizations of the United Nations system and other global, regional and subregional organizations, the private sector and civil society, including non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, individuals and other relevant stakeholders to observe the International Day of Epidemic Preparedness annually in an appropriate manner and in accordance with national contexts and priorities, through education and awareness-raising activities, in order to highlight the importance of the prevention of, preparedness for and partnership against epidemics.


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