Gantan-sai is the Shinto celebration of new years. On this day followers of the Shinto religion visit shrines where they pray for inner renewal, health and prosperity in the new year, and for seven days people visit one another to offer good wishes for the upcoming year.

National/State: International

The Chinese new year falls on the first day of the Chinese calendar, and continues for 15 days. During celebrations people clean their houses to drive away the bad luck of the previous year. 2012 will be the year of the dragon.

National/State: International

Australia's largest gathering of Indigenous country musicians are gearing up to take Tamworth by storm at the fifth Annual Cultural Showcase.

Held as part of the iconic Tamworth Country Music Festival, the Annual Cultural Showcase brings together some of the best and brightest Indigenous musicians this side of the Black Stump.

The Showcase is an opportunity for Indigenous people all over Australia to show off their talent, meet other performers and have a good time with the mob. The Cultural Showcase offers unique opportunities for exposure and performance development to Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander musicians and the chance to perform on a number of stages - from established venues to enjoying the experience of busking in Peel Street.

National/State: NSW

The Saltwater Freshwater Festival is the largest regional Aboriginal Cultural event on the Mid North Coast of NSW, Australia. It is a nomadic event that moves to a different location in the region each Australia Day (26 January).

Organisation: National Australia Day Council

Australia Day is a day to celebrate the past, present and future of the country. It is a commemoration of the day that the First Fleet landed in Sydney Cove in 1788, as well as a celebration of all the achievements of our country. At its core Australia Day is driven by communities who celebrate everything they love about living in Australia and about being an Australian.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

Celebrated on the day that the Auschwitz death camp was liberated in 1945, International Day of Commemoration of the Victims of the Holocaust remembers all those who suffered and lost their lives during the holocaust.

National/State: International

Organisation: HeartKids Australia

HeartKids aims to raise awareness for all aspects of children's heart disease. They support children with heart diseases, as well as their families, including those who have lost young children. Heart Kids works towards reducing both the incidence and the mortality rates of childhood heart disease. During the month there is a particular emphasis on February 14th.

National/State: National

Organisation: Ovarian Cancer Australia

Each year in February Ovarian Cancer Australia runs a national Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month campaign to highlight the symptoms of ovarian cancer and to raise funds for our programs.

National/State: National

Organisation: Ramsar

World Wetlands Day marks the signing of the Ramsar Convention, an intergovernmental treaty that calls for the member countries to maintain the ecological use of their wetlands. It is a day to remember the importance and fragility of our native wetlands.

National/State: International

Setsuban-sai is a Shinto new year celebration based on Japan's old lunar calendar. It is celebrated as a good luck festival and a celebration of the changing of seasons.

National/State: International

Organisation: The Cancer Council Australia

February 4 is World Cancer Day - acknowledging the impact of cancer on people around the world. Today is used to recognise efforts to improve cancer prevention, treatment and care.

National/State: International

Organisation: Cyber Smart

Safer Internet day encourages families, libraries and schools to learn and connect together. Take positive actions and teach each other about staying safe online.

National/State: National

Organisation: Sustainable Living Foundation

The Sustainable Living Festival raises awareness and provides tools for change by showcasing leading solutions to the ecological and social challenges we face. This year the festival continues engaging individuals and communities across Australia to host and promote sustainability events, extending the reach of the sustainability message to the cities, suburbs and streets of the nation.

National/State: VIC

Organisation: Duchenne Foundation

Every year the week surrounding Valentine's Day is Duchenne Awareness Week. Each year around the world, nearly 20,000 children, mostly boys, are born with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. These children rarely live longer than their parents.

National/State: International

Organisation: The Abused Child Trust

The Abused Child Trust is a Queensland-based charitable organisation that works with families to help keep children safe. Just buy and wear one of the specially designed tattoos, tiara or bracelets. Money raised from the sale of merchandise provides vital funds for health, counseling and education services that help break the cycle of child abuse and neglect.

National/State: QLD

Organisation: Sexual Health and Family Planning Australia

National Condom Day is celebrated on Valentines Day, and raises awareness of sexual health and family planning.

National/State: National

Organisation: Shine SA

Sexual Health Awareness Week encourages young adults, aged between 18 and 30 years, to broaden their understanding of sexual health and relationships.

National/State: SA

Organisation: Asperger's Syndrome Support Network (Qld)

International Asperger's Day is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of people with Asperger's Syndrome, a developmental disorder that affects how the brain processes information. It is also an opportunity to show support for their families and carers.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

World Day of Social Justice is an opportunity to devote time to the promotion of social justice, solidarity, equality and harmony.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

International Mother Language Day is a day of multilingualism and multiculturalism. It is a chance to promote the preservation and protection of all languages.

National/State: International

Organisation: Ovarian Cancer Australia

Teal Ribbon Day remembers those who have been lost to ovarian cancer, as well as supporting those who are still fighting it. The entire month of February is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.

National/State: National

Organisation: Surf Life Saving Foundation

Boardies Day is an annual fundraising initiative of the Surf Life Saving Foundation, who encourages all Australians to wear their boardshorts or other beach-themed attire to work or school and make a donation to help their volunteer surf lifesavers.

National/State: SA

Organisation: International Centre for Eyecare Education

Sunnies for Sight Day is a day for children to learn about their vision and how to protect themselves from avoidable blindness and vision impairment.

National/State: National

Each year on the fourth Monday in February, the corporate giving community, led by CECP, observes International Corporate Philanthropy Day (ICPD), an international advocacy day intended to build awareness of corporate-community partnerships and to inspire businesses around the world to engage further.

On this day, CECP holds the annual Board of Boards CEO Conference in New York, along with a host of media-friendly opportunities to draw attention to the important role of the private sector in solving societal problems.

CECP member companies and partner organizations plan philanthropic initiatives and announcements around this day, and CECP works with partner agencies to communicate the overall benefits and importance of corporate philanthropy.

National/State: International

Organisation: Clean Up Australia

Business Clean Up Day is designed for Australian businesses as a great opportunity to help improve the quality of the environment and work towards reducing waste - as well as being a great team building exercise.

National/State: National

Organisation: Epilepsy Australia

National Epilepsy Awareness Month includes a range of events, community activities and media campaigns to raise awareness and improve understanding of epilepsy. The month will culminate in Purple Day on March 26, when everyone is encouraged to wear purple for epilepsy.

National/State: National

Organisation: Muscular Dystrophy Association of Western Australia Inc

Everything we do at Muscular Dystrophy Western Australia is focused on improving the quality of life for Western Australians with muscular dystrophy, supporting those who care for people with muscular dystrophy and funding research into treatments and ultimately, a cure for this devastating disease.

National/State: National

Organisation: Clean Up Australia

Schools Clean Up Day is about inspiring the next generation to learn about their environment and make a real difference in their local community. Students, teachers and parents work together to help clean their communities.

National/State: National

Organisation: Aboriginal Artists Development Fund Inc.

The Aboriginal Artists Development Fund Inc., in conjunction with The Didge Circle, with major sponsorship from Mia Mia Aboriginal Art Gallery and Manningham City Council are proud to bring you the 2012 Melbourne Didgeridoo and Cultural Festival. Now in it's fourth year the festival is a celebration and showcase of one of the world's oldest wind instruments, the didgeridoo. It will be a day of entertainment for the whole family with stalls, workshops, activities and a concert featuring world-class performers and musicians including Mark Atkins, Bruce Rogers, Ganga Giri, Wilbur Wilde and the One Fire Dance Troupe to name a few.

This is a celebration that will recognise, acknowledge and respect the Wurundjeri people as the traditional owners of the land on which the festival is being held. It will also recognise, acknowledge and respect the Yolngu people of NE Arnhem Land as the traditional owners and custodians of the didgeridoo. The festival is partially funded through Manningham City Council's Community Development Grant Program for which we appreciate their ongoing support.

The festival is held in the beautiful surrounds of the Mia Mia Aboriginal Art Gallery at Westerfolds Park in Templestowe on Saturday the 3rd of March 2012 from 11am through to 10pm. For more information and ways to get involved in the festival please visit www.didgefestival.com

National/State: National

Organisation: World Naked Bike Ride

The World Naked Bike Ride aims to increase awareness of the vulnerability of cyclists on the road. It is also a peaceful protest against the vulnerability of cyclists, humanity and nature in the face of cars, aggression, consumerism and non-renewable energy.

National/State: International

Organisation: Clean Up Australia

Clean Up Australia Day encourages all Australians to take to their local park, beach, bushland or streets and help collect rubbish. Individuals and local groups can either organise a Clean Up Site or volunteer to join an existing Site.

National/State: National

Organisation: Marine Education Society of Australasia

Sea Week aims to encourage appreciation of the sea. Each year a different theme is chosen, with this year's theme being "spotlight on marine science."

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

International Women's Day is a day to celebrate the contribution and achievements of all women. It is an opportunity to remember the barriers that women have broken through, and the accomplishments they have made despite barriers.

National/State: International

Diabetes and high blood pressure are both key risk factors for chronic kidney disease. World kidney Day aims to raise awareness of the importance of our kidneys to our health, and aims to reduce the impact of kidney disease worldwide.

National/State: International

Magha Puja Day is a Buddhist celebration of the Fourfold Assembly. It is celebrated on the full moon day of March.

National/State: International

Catch up with friends, old and new - find out what's going on at your local park this week. From our majestic national parks to our living green city spaces, everyone can explore, take a breath of fresh air and be inspired.

Hello Parks Week is an annual celebration of the important role that our parks play in contributing to the social, cultural and environmental health of our communities.

A range of formal and informal events will take place across the country during parks week - there is something for everyone.

Organisation: YMCA

Not for profit community organisation, the YMCA, is excited to announce its first ever national Swimathon fundraiser which will see more than 100 YMCA-managed pools countrywide simultaneously host Australia's biggest pool-based swim on Sunday 11 March 2012.

With the theme Dive In. Help Out, the inaugural YMCA Swimathon is an opportunity for Y members across the country and the broader community to come together for a day of healthy, physical activity while raising money for YMCA benevolent programs in each Centre's local community.

National/State: National

Organisation: Glaucoma Australia

Glaucoma is a worldwide epidemiological challenge affecting approximately four percent of the global population with an estimated 50 percent of glaucoma cases remaining undiagnosed. World Glaucoma Week seeks to raise awareness of this 'silent' eye condition. In Australia, glaucoma is a major cause of sight loss in adults over the age of 40. There are generally no warning signs and is therefore often referred to as the 'sneak thief of sight'. Australians will be encouraged during the week to undertake an eye check as early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are paramount in saving vision from glaucoma. Please contact Geoff Pollard for more information.

National/State: National

Organisation: Glaucoma Australia

World Glaucoma Week raises awareness of the worldwide leading cause of irreversible blindness. The week also aims to raise funds to continue research in glaucoma.

National/State: International

Canberra day is an annual public holiday in the ACT which celebrates Canberra's official founding in 1913.

National/State: ACT

Organisation: Australian multiple Birth Association

Multiple Birth Awareness Week is a celebration of families raising twins, triplets, and more. The day also aims to raise awareness of the challenges that go hand-in-hand with raising these children.

National/State: National

Organisation: The Coeliac Society of Australia Inc

Coeliac (seel-ee-ak) Disease is a complete intolerance to gluten, which can cause serious health issues. One per cent of the world has coeliac disease, yet 75% of people with the disease don't know they have it. Coeliac Awareness Week aims to increase public understanding of this disease.

National/State: National

Organisation: Leukaemia Foundation

Every hour somebody in Australia is diagnosed with lymphoma, myeloma or leukaemia. Every second hour, somebody dies from one of these diseases. The World's greatest shave has raised in excess of $120 million since 1998, and uses the raised funds to support patients and families living with these blood disorders. Funds are also used to support blood cancer research to help find better treatments and cures.

Organisation: Cystic Fibrosis New South Wales

Crazy Hair Day for Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a great way for schools to have fun on the last day of the second term while raising awareness and money for kids living with Cystic Fibrosis. All you have to do is set a date for students (and teachers if they like!) to come to school with crazy hair! In exchange for a gold coin donation they can colour, gel, tease, tie, spike or twist their hair for Cystic Fibrosis NSW.

National/State: NSW

Organisation: Victorian Multicultural Commission

Cultural Diversity Week is held annually in March. The Week provides an opportunity for all Victorians to celebrate our cultural, linguistic and religious diversity, with a variety of events and activities taking place across the State. It also marks the United Nations Day for the Elimination of Racism on 21 March and affirms our belief in the right for all Victorians to live without fear of racial and religious discrimination.

National/State: Vic

Organisation: Council on Ageing (ACT)

Seniors Week aims to encourage senior citizens to discover different aspects of their communities, enjoy new sports or recreational activities, or to simply learn more about senior's issues.

National/State: ACT

Organisation: The Scanlon Foundation

A Taste of Harmony is a week used to celebrate the cultural diversity in the workplace. Workplaces are encouraged to invite their workers to bring in a lunch that represents their cultural background, and join in a multicultural lunch.

National/State: Vic

Organisation: United Nations

Celebrated on the anniversary of the 1960 shooting of 69 anti-apartheid protestors, International Day for the Elimination of Social Discrimination is a reminder to continue breaking down all forms of racism and racial discrimination.

National/State: National

Organisation: Department of Immigration and Citizenship

Harmony Day is a chance for Australia to celebrate cultural diversity. It is an opportunity to reflect on what makes Australia a multicultural country, including the acknowledgment of the traditional owners of this land.

National/State: VIC

World Forestry Day is a celebration and reminder of the importance of forests and the many benefits we enjoy because of them - such as catchment protection, providing habitat for plants, areas for recreation, education and scientific study, and as a source of many products including timber and honey.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

The United Nations describes poetry as another facet of the dialogue among cultures. World Poetry Day is a celebration of the contribution made to society by poetry.

Organisation: United Nations

Nowruz, the Iranian New Year, is observed in many different countries, and is a celebration of the first day of spring and the renewal of nature. It promotes values of peace and solidarity between generations and within families as well as reconciliation and neighbourliness.

National/State: International

Naw-Ruz (`New Day') is the Bahá'í and Iranian new year. It occurs on the date of the vernal equinox, and symbolises the new life of spring.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

This is a week for nations, states and communities to reaffirm their solidarity alongside those who struggle against racial discrimination.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

World Water Day is held to focus attention on the need for fresh water, and the importance of the sustainable management of fresh water resources.

National/State: International

Organisation: Oxfam

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are still dying 10 to 17 years younger than other Australians. For that reason, more than 40 national organisations came together in 2006 to form Close the Gap - Australia's largest ever campaign to improve the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

National/State: national

Organisation: World Meteorological Organisation

World Meteorological Day is a commemoration of the day the World Meteorological Organisation was formed in 1950.

National/State: International

Organisation: Australian Respiratory Council

World Tuberculosis Day is designed to build public awareness about the disease which causes the deaths of several million people every year, mostly in developing countries. The day also aims to raise funds to help eliminate tuberculosis as a public health problem.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

Known as Slavery Remembrance day, this is a day to remember the consequences and lessons learned from the transatlantic slave trade.

National/State: International

Organisation: Neighbour Day

Neighbour Day is Australia's annual celebration of community held on the last Sunday in March every year. Its aim is to encourage closer, friendlier relationships between neighbours and to strengthen communities.

National/State: National

Organisation: The Children's Hospital at Westmead

The Bandaged Bear Appeal is The Children's Hospital at Westmead's largest public fundraising appeal. The event raises valuable funds to conduct research into childhood diseases, develop prevention material, purchase vital equipment and provide world class services to our young patients.

National/State: NSW

Organisation: Arthritis Victoria

Arthritis Awareness Week aims to support and inspire those with arthritis to positively manage their condition and to raise awareness of arthritis in the wider community

National/State: VIC

Organisation: Playgroup Australia

Playgroup Australia organises the annual National Playgroup Week to raise awareness of the importance of play for young children.

National/State: National

Organisation: Epilepsy Australia

Purple Day for Epilepsy Awareness aims to increase awareness about epilepsy across Australia. People are encouraged to wear purple clothing or a purple ribbon on the day.

National/State: National

Organisation: The Australian Division of World Action on Salt and Health (AWASH)

Salt Awareness Week aims to increase the understanding of the health issues raised by a high salt diet. High salt diets can lead to high blood pressure, obesity, osteoporosis, stomach cancer, kidney stones and stroke.

National/State: National

Organisation: Hear and Say Centre for deaf children and their families

Hearing impairment is the most common disability in children, with four children in every thousand developing hearing impairment by age five. Buy a Butterfly Month aims to help hearing impaired and deaf children hear and learn to speak.

National/State: QLD

Organisation: Bicycle Victoria

Ride2School day encourages children to become more active and healthy in and out of school. Children participate by walking, riding or scooting to school.

National/State: National

Organisation: Australian Wound Management Association

Wound Awareness Week is a national campaign designed to raise public and professional awareness of issues and approaches to wound management, best practice in wound management and where the public can go for help. The Australian Wound Management Association has a particular focus on skin tears, pressure ulcers and venous ulcers.

National/State: National

Organisation: Victorian Government

Officially launched in Victoria in 2010, March 31 is Good Samaritan Day. The Victorian Government wants Good Samaritan Day to be a reminder of the good things people do for one another.

National/State: VIC

Organisation: Australian Chapter of Batten Disease Support and Research Association

National Batten Disease Awareness Day aims to increase awareness about Battens Disease, a rare degenerative disease that usually affects children. Battens Disease leads to a premature death, and currently affects roughly 40 individuals in Austrealia.

National/State: National

Earth Hour is an international sustainability movement, where individuals and businesses are encouraged to turn off all lights for an hour. Earth Hour aims to increase awareness of the impact we have on our world through the use of fossil fuels and electricity.

National/State: International

Organisation: Compassionate Friends Victoria

The Walk to Remember is a time to remember lost children alongside their bereaved parents and siblings. for more information on the event visit the website.

National/State: VIC

Organisation: Diabetes Australia

Diabetes is proving to be one of the biggest health risks in Australia, with one person diagnosed every seven minutes. There is no cure for type 1 or 2 diabetes, but it is a manageable disease. The Great Australian Bite is a Diabetes Australia initiative to raise funds and awareness about this chronic disease.

National/State: National

Organisation: The Humour Foundation

Smile Day is the Humour Foundation's annual fundraising activity. The day helps the foundation raise funds to continue making sick children smile.

National/State: National

Organisation: Herald Sun/CityLink Run

Herald Sun / CityLink Run for the Kids will see people run or walk set courses - all people participating in this event play a part in raising money for the Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal.

National/State: Vic

Working smoke alarms provide vital early warning in the event of a fire. When people are asleep, they can't smell smoke. Smoke alarms are essential to wake people if a fire breaks out; they give occupants early warning and time to evacuate safely.

National/State: National

Organisation: Falls Prevention Network

April Falls Day was an initiative that originated in Northern Sydney Central Coast Area Health Service to promote the prevention of falls in the aged community.

National/State: National

Organisation: Injury Control Council of WA (ICCWA) on behalf of the Department of Health WA

Aim is to encourage and educate staff in falls prevention within hospitals, aged care facilities and General Practitioners in regional and metropolitan areas throughout WA, for further information and to register see our web page.

National/State: WA

Organisation: Autism Awareness Australia

As part of World Autism Awareness Day, Autism Awareness Australia and the United Nations are working together to support and promote this unique global initiative, which highlights the growing public health concern that is autism. Join us in our second year of recognising this important cause, and help us to increase understanding and education about autism in our community.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

Autism, a developmental disability, is a lifelong disorder that impairs social interaction, communication and behaviour. World Autism Awareness Day aims to increase understanding of the disability.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

This is a day intended to draw attention to the plight of mine survivors and the gradual reduction in new casualties since the anti-personnel mine-ban treaty entered into force in 1999.

National/State: International

The Day for Compassion, Care, and Action for Stray Animals Worldwide.

April 4 is the worldwide celebrated day to give special attention to the 600.000.000 stray animals in the world. Dogs and cats should have a home. But stray dogs and stray cats don't. They lead poor and miserable lives on the streets, often illfed, suffering extreme heat, cold, and diseases, even more often being chased around by hostile and violent civilians and authorities. But we, as people who care about animals, can do something.

April 4. The Day to show Compassion, deploy initiatives to Care, and get into Action for stray animals all over our planet.

National/State: International

Organisation: SIMaid

With 1 in 8 adults in Malawi having HIV, AIDS is silently destroying lives, hopes and communities throughout this country. Orange HOPE is a SIMaid (http://simaid.org.au/) fund-raising initiative to support SIM Malawi's HOPE for AIDS program, through Home-based care, Orphan Care, Prevention and Enabling. Throughout the week individuals have the opportunity to have fun while fundraising for our HOPE for AIDS projects. Start thinking about your Orange event now! Orange cake stall, orange movie night, orange clothing swap. The possibilities are endless!

National/State: NSW

National/State: International

Celebrated on the day Jesus was crucified, Good Friday is a Christian day of mourning the suffering of Jesus.

National/State: International

Probably the best known Jewish holiday, Passover is commemorates the story of the exodus, where the Israelites were freed from Egyptian slavery.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

World Health Day is a commemoration of the founding of the World Health Organisation. It functions as an opportunity to focus on health issues that affect the international community.

National/State: International

Organisation: The Urban Playground Movement

International Pillow Fight day is an Urban Playground Movement initiative. It is a free, public all-ages event, with an aim of getting people off the couch and out of the house to appreciate the fun they can have in their cities.

National/State: International

Organisation: Diversional Therapy Association of NSW

Diversional Therapy Awareness Week aims to promote the profession of Diversional Therapy, the promotion involvement in recreation and leisure activities for all ages and abilities, to other health professionals and organisations, students and client groups.

National/State: National

Organisation: Autism Queensland

Autism Queensland's Dress Differently Day aims to increase awareness of autism in the community. Children with autism see the world differently to those who don't have the disorder, for that reason Dress Differently Day invites schools and communities to wear something different for a day.

National/State: QLD

Organisation: Parkinson's Victoria

World Parkinson's Day is an opportunity to raise awareness of the condition, while also raising funds to continue research into a possible cure. Parkinson's disease is a chronic, progressive neurological condition for which there is currently no cure. Twenty-five Australians are diagnosed every day, with approximately 80,000 Australians currently living with the condition.

National/State: VIC

Baisakhi is a Sikh celebration of the new solar year. Those who celebrate the festival typically thank god for a good harvest.

National/State: International

Organisation: Fire Foundation Ltd

Friday The 13th "Don't Be One Of The Lucky Ones" is a National Fire Safety & Awareness Campaign focussing on fire prevention at home. The campaign runs each time Friday The 13th appears in a calendar year and is focussed on each campaign the focus is on a different safety message. Here's a taste of what you'll see http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3a3teIqU61M&feature=related

National/State: National

Organisation: Joint Australian, State, Territory and Local Government initiative

National Youth Week is an annual, weeklong celebration of young people (12 to 25) throughout Australia. National Youth Week encourages youths to share ideas, attend events, discuss youth issues, showcase their talents and even have a bit of fun.

National/State: National

Each year International Creativity and Innovation Week is a celebration of new ideas, imagination and anything that has made the world a better place.

National/State: International

Organisation: Haemophilia Foundation Australia

World Haemophilia day raises awareness of the inherited bleeding disorder.

National/State: International

World Heritage Day is an opportunity to appreciate heritage monuments and sites for the international community. The day offers an opportunity to raise the public's awareness about the diversity of cultural heritage and the efforts that are required to protect and conserve it, as well as draw attention to its vulnerability.

National/State: International

Organisation: In Defense of Animals

During World Week for Animals in Laboratories (WWAIL), please speak out against the abhorrent use of animals in testing and research. Dogs, cats, rabbits and many other animals still suffer pointless and painful procedures in the name of product testing. Some will undergo irritancy tests that cause severe chemical burns to their sensitive skin; others will be forced to ingest harmful chemicals that can lead to fatal poisoning. To study the 'effects', animals are often left to languish for days without pain relief. This tells us nothing about toxicity to humans. As a consumer, you have the power to help end this cruelty.

National/State: International

Organisation: Earth Day Network

Earth Day is a celebration of the environment we all share. It also acts as a day of conservation awareness.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

Celebrated on a day when many great authors have died, including Shakespeare, World Book and Copyright Day is a world-wide tribute to books and authors. It also encourages people to discover or rediscover the pleasure of reading.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

Particularly targeted at young drivers, Road Safety Week aims to increase awareness of the dangers present on the roads.

National/State: International

Organisation: Kidsafe WA

Playground Safety Week aims to promote the prevention of fall related injuries to children while encouraging children to stay active but safe during play.

National/State: WA

Easter is a Christian celebration of the death and ressurection of Jesus Christ. It is a celebration of life in the face of death.

National/State: International

Organisation: YWCA Victoria

The Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA) celebrates women's leadership and acknowledge their own part in a global movement of women working for justice, peace, health, human dignity, freedom and care for the environment.

National/State: International

ANZAC Day is more than a commemoration of the day ANZAC troops landed on the beach at Gallipoli in 1915, it is a day of remembrance for all Australians who served and died in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

Organisation: Roll Back Malaria Partnership

World Malaria Day is an opportunity for malaria-free countries to learn about the devastating consequences of the disease and for new donors to join a global partnership against malaria. It is an occasion for research and academia institutions to flag their scientific advances to both experts and the general public. It is chance for countries in affected regions to learn from each other's experiences and back each other efforts. It is an opportunity for international partners, companies and foundations to showcase their results and reflect together on how to scale up what has been proven to work.

National/State: International

Organisation: Guide Dogs Victoria

International Guide Dog Day is a day to celebrate the important role that guide dogs play in helping the blind and vision impaired enjoy safe and independent travel.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

World Intellectual Property Day is an opportunity to raise awareness of how patents, copyright, trademarks and designs impact daily life. It also aims to increase understanding of how intellectual property protection helps promote creativity and innovation.

National/State: International

Based on a concept from a Catherine Ryan Hyde novel, Pay It Forward Day urges people around the world to commit random acts of kindness. It is a day to do good deeds, and instruct the recipient of your good deed to 'pay it forward', and return the good deed to another person.

National/State: International

Organisation: International Labor Organization (ILO)

World Day for Safety and Health at Work promotes the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases globally. It is also a day in which the world's trade union movement holds its International Commemoration Day for Dead and Injured Workers.

National/State: International

Buddha's Day celebrates the birthday of Prince Siddhartha Gautama, who was to become Sakyamuni Buddha, the founder of Buddhism.

National/State: International

Organisation: Ausdance

Australian Dance week is a celebration of the cultural contributions of dance to the Australian community.

National/State: National

Organisation: Office of the Australian Information Commissioner

Privacy Awareness Week aims to raise understanding of the dangers of handing out personal information, especially over the internet. The Week usually holds a variety of programs and initiatives hosted by public and private sector organisations from across the Asia-Pacific region to promote awareness of privacy rights and responsibilities.

National/State: National

Organisation: Australian Osteopathic Association

Osteopathy Awareness Week raises awareness of the health benefits that Osteopaths can offer. Most people, regardless of age or gender, will suffer from back or neck pain, headaches, sport injuries, stiffness or pain at some time. Osteopaths can help to identify the cause of the pain or injury and develop a safe and effective course of action to manage pain.

National/State: National

Organisation: National Asthma Council Australia

World Asthma Day (WAD) takes place each year on the first Tuesday in May. Initiated by the Global Initiative for Asthma in 1998, the National Asthma Council Australia (NAC) embraces WAD and marks the occasion to highlight the need for ongoing care and vigilance in managing asthma.

National/State: National

Beltane was a traditional Gaelic harvest festival, and was popularised as the 'Celtic new year.' It traditionally marked the beginning of summer.

National/State: International

Organisation: PKU Association of NSW Inc.

PKU, or Phenylketonuria, is a rare genetic disorder which affects the liver. PKU Awareness Day is an opportunity to raise awareness of the disease and help to raise funds for research.

National/State: NSW

Organisation: Tourette Syndrome Association of Vic.

The aim of Tourette Syndrome Awareness Week is to spread knowledge of what Tourettes is, as well as ask for understanding and acceptance in the community and to undo the social stigma created by misinformation.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

World Press Freedom Day is an opportunity to celebrate the principles of press freedom and to pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

National/State: International

May 4 is called Star Wars Day because of the popularity of a common pun spoken on this day. Since the phrase "May the Force be with you" is a famous quote often spoken in the Star Wars films, fans commonly say "May the fourth be with you" on this day.

National/State: International

Organisation: International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) Australian College of Midwives(ACM)

May 5 is the International Day of the Midwife. The aim of the day is to celebrate the importance of midwifery.

National/State: National

Organisation: Eating Disorders Foundation of Victoria Inc.

International No Diet Day is a celebration of body type diversity and body acceptance. It promotes a healthy lifestyle, compared to a string of ineffective short term diets.

National/State: National

Organisation: Heart Foundation

Heart Week aims to raise community awareness of cardiovascular disease and the many ways to avoid developing heart disease.

National/State: National

Organisation: Australian Breastfeeding Association

While Mothers Day celebrates mothers, National Mothering Week aims to further recognise the importance of mothers in Australia, because one day just isn't enough.

National/State: National

Organisation: MND Australia

Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is a progressive neurological disease that affects roughly 1400 Australians, and thousands more carers, family and friends who live with the impact of the disease. National MND week aims to raise awareness of the disease.

National/State: NSW

Organisation: facilitated by the Centre for Organic & Resource Enterprises (CORE).

International Composting Awareness Week is a week of activities, events and publicity to improve awareness about the importance of this valuable organic resource and to promote compost use, knowledge and products.

National/State: National

Organisation: Australian Red Cross

Celebrated on the day the Red Cross founder, Henry Dunant (1828-1910), was born World Red Cross Day celebrates the important work done by the staff and volunteers of the Red Cross and Red Crescent movements.

National/State: International

Mothers Day is the annual celebration of mothers and the hard work they do.

Organisation: United Nations

An international time to remember those all those who lost their lives during the Second World War, regardless of what side they fought on.

National/State: International

Organisation: Australian Neighbourhood Houses and Centres Association

National Neighbourhood House Day celebrates the role that more than 1,000 Neighbourhood Houses and Community Centres throughout Australia play in their communities through provision of a range of services and activities designed to strengthen communities and support individuals and families.

National/State: National

Organisation: ME/CFS Australia (Victoria)

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a complex illness which affects an estimated 180,000 Australians. The International ME/CFS Awareness Week is used to raise awareness for the illness, and promote early diagnosis.

National/State: National

Organisation: An initiative of Our Community and Westpac

Social Sector Financial Literacy Week is an initiative of Our Community and Westpac, used to highlight the importance of good stewardship over the finances of Australia's 600,000 community groups.

National/State: National

Organisation: International Lupus Congress

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that may cause abnormalities in the function and structure of such vital organs as kidney, brain, lungs etc. World Lupus Day raises awareness about this disease

National/State: National

Every year International Nurses Day is celebrated on the anniversary of Florence Nightingale's birth. It is a day to celebrate the role nurses play in the care of their communities.

National/State: International

The Mothers Day Classic is a national walk or run that raises money for breast cancer research. Make a difference by simply walking, running or sponsoring a participant, to help raise vital funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

World Migratory Bird Day is a global awareness campaign highlighting the need for the protection of migratory birds and their habitats.

National/State: International

Organisation: Australasian Tuberous Sclerosis Society

Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) is a genetic disorder that causes non-cancerous tumours to grow in various organs of the body. TSC can cause a variety of other conditions including epilepsy, developmental delay, autism and kidney disease. 2012 is the first Global Awareness Day for Tuberous Sclerosis Complex and we're spreading the word through social media as well as traditional media. It is a chance to raise awareness of a condition that affects more than 2500 Australians and many more carers, families and friends.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

The International Day of Families is an opporunity to raise awareness of issues relating to families in the international cummity.

National/State: International

Organisation: The Pedestrian Council

Parents, Teachers and carers, mark your diary and ask your school if they are participating in National Walk Safely to school day on Friday 18 May. Now in its thirteenth year, primary school children learn about pedestrian safety and the importance of regular exercise by participating in National Walk Safely to School Day. National Walk safely to school Day promotes the vitally important message: Active Kids are Healthy Kids.

National/State: National

Organisation: RSCPA

The Million Paws Walk is a fundraising event for the RSPCA. The RSPCA investigates more than 50,000 of animal cruelty or neglect each year.

National/State: National

Organisation: Department of Education and Early Childhood Development

Education Week is an opportunity for Victorian schools to open their doors to parents and the broader community, and showcase their programs and achievements.

National/State: VIC

Organisation: Palliative Care Australia

National Palliative Care Week aims to get Australian's talking about death, and making plans for the care they might need as they come towards the end of their lives.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

The World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development is an opportunity to increase understanding of cultural diversity, and the positive impact it can have on countries and communities.

National/State: International

Organisation: The Chiropractors' Association of Australia (National) Limited

A healthy spine means a healthier life. Spinal Health Week is an annual, national initiative run by the Chiropractors' Association of Australia. This year, the Week will focus on posture in the workplace, highlighting the dangers of long-term sitting and incorrect posture. Chiropractors around the country will be running local activities during the week.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

The International Day for Biological Diversity is used to increase understanding and awareness of all biodiversity issues.

National/State: International

Organisation: Cancer Council

May is Australia's biggest Morning Tea month. Thursday 24 May is the official day but you can host an event anytime throughout May or June. It's simple, fun and best of all for a great cause! All you need to do is set a date, brainstorm some morning tea ideas, invite your guests and raise money to help support the fight against cancer.

National/State: National

Organisation: Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation

Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation is the official fundraising body for Princess Margaret Hospital for Children (PMH), Western Australia's only specialist children's hospital.

Wear a Bear Day was initially launched in 1998 and since then has raised nearly $1 million for the Foundation. The event encourages the West Australian community to purchase our branded merchandise during the month of May, and culminates on the last Friday of May with our largest public fundraising appeal, all to support children and adolescents who visit PMH. This year's street appeal is Friday 25 May.

National/State: WA

Organisation: United Nations

A non-self-governing territory is defined as a territory "whose people have not yet attained a full measure of self-government. This week of solidarity is used to show support for these territories.

Organisation: Cystic Fibrosis New South Wales

The 65 Roses Day helps to raise funds and awareness for Cystic Fibrosis. CF is the most common life threatening, recessive genetic condition affecting Australian children.

National/State: NSW

Organisation: National Sorry Day Committee

National Sorry Day is a continuing effort to achieve appropriate education, reconciliation and recognition for the Aborigine stolen generation.

National/State: National

Pentecost is a Christian celebration of the fiftieth day after Easter. It is a biblical celebration of the day the Holy Spirit birthed the Christian Church.

National/State: International

Organisation: Our Community

The Communities in Control Conference is the biggest annual gathering of community sector workers, volunteers and supporters.

National/State: National

Organisation: Music Council of Australia

The Making Music Being Well Week is an initiative used to raise awareness of the recreational and therapeutic benefits of being musically active.

National/State: National

Organisation: Kidney Health Australia

Kidney Health Week aims to increase awareness of Chronic Kidney Disease, a very dangerous kidney disease.

National/State: National

Organisation: Macular Degeneration Foundation

Macular Degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in Australia. Macular Degeneration Awareness Week is an annual event designed to raise awareness of Macular Degeneration and to encourage those most at risk, people over 50, to have their eyes tested and macula checked. A free Macular Degeneration information pack is available from the Foundation.

National/State: National

Organisation: Reconciliation Australia

National Reconciliation Week celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Australia's Aborigines, and aims to continue reconciliatory efforts.

National/State: National

Organisation: White Wreath Association

White Wreath Day is celebrated in remembrance of suicide victims. Almost every Australian family is directly or indirectly affected by suicide. On White Wreath Day we are asked to display a white wreath in remembrance of those who have lost their lives.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

International Day of UN Peacekeepers is a day of recognition for the military, police and civilian peacekeepers deployed across the world.

National/State: International

Organisation: MS Australia

To help this important cause during May you can 'Kiss Goodbye to MS' and: * WEAR red lipstick for MS in May and get sponsored for doing so * DARE others including men to wear red lipstick for MS in May; and * SHARE the campaign by holding a 'Kiss Goodbye to MS' event or spreading the word about MS via Facebook and Twitter. 'Kiss Goodbye to MS' this May and help raise awareness about the increasing incidence of multiple sclerosis in Australia, particularly in young women aged between 20 and 40.

Organisation: Sydney Children's Hospital Foundation

Gold Week is the annual fundraising event for Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick. Raised funds are typically put towards buying new equipment, refurbishing wards and funding research.

National/State: NSW

Organisation: United Nations

World No Tobacco Day aims to increase awareness about the dangers of smoking tobacco products, and the health implications of tobacco usage.

National/State: International

Organisation: Australian Childhood Foundation

Childhood Hero Day is a fundraising event for the Australian Childhood Foundation. Raised funds are put towards helping Australia's most vulnerable children.

Organisation: The Australian Thyroid Foundation

Thyroid Awareness Week highlights thyroid health research, treatments and outcomes, and the importance of good thyroid health.

National/State: National

Organisation: The Australian Society for Medical Research

Medical Research Week is organised by The Australian Society for Medical Research, and comprises of expositions, meetings, lectures, debates and many more events to highlight current medical research issues.

National/State: National

Organisation: Open Family Australia

The 21 Challenge is your chance to help homeless youth by doing something you love, perhaps something you don't love, or maybe something you've never done before, for 21 continuous days in June. You might stop using swear words, eating chocolate, wearing makeup or you could start something like going to yoga every day for 21 days, only drinking water or sporting a crazy hairstyle. The 21 Challenge starts on June 1st and finishes on June 21st, the longest night of the year in the southern hemisphere and one of the most difficult nights for young people living on the streets. Participants raise funds while undertaking their Challenge with all the benefits of their efforts going towards Open Family Australia's Outreach programs to benefit at-risk and homeless young people.

National/State: National

Organisation: International Fund for Animal Welfare

Launched in 2008 by IFAW, National Whale Day is a celebration of the whales and dolphins that migrate to our coastlines annually and Australia's position as a world leader in whale conservation. Join us by running or taking part in an event in your local area.

National/State: National

Mabo Day commemorates the anniversary of the 1992 High Court decision in the case brought by Eddie Mabo and others which recognised the existence in Australia of native title rights. The historic court decision buried the legal description of early Australia as 'terra nullius', or 'no man's land."

National/State: National

Organisation: Bowel Cancer Australia

Bowel Cancer Awareness Week aims to raise public awareness of a disease that claims the life of one Australian every two hours. 1 in 12 Australians will develop bowel cancer in their lifetime and it is the second largest cause of cancer deaths after lung cancer. It affects both men and women, young and old.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

The purpose of International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression is to acknowledge the pain suffered by children throughout the world who are the victims of physical, mental and emotional abuse.

National/State: International

Organisation: Australian Government Initiative

National Cyber Security Awareness Week is designed to raise awareness among Australians of cyber security risks and simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

World Environment Day aims to be the world's biggest and most widely celebrated environmental action event.

National/State: International

Organisation: Bowel Cancer Australia

On Red Apple Day Australians are encouraged to help raise funds for bowel cancer research and awareness through the purchase of an apple pin.

National/State: National

Organisation: The Ocean Project

World Oceans Day is a chance to celebrate what the ocean provides for every person.

National/State: International

Organisation: Kidsafe WA

Safety in Schools week aims to reduce the incidence of school injury through education.

National/State: WA

Organisation: Men's Health Information and Resource Centre

International Men's Health Week aims to increase awareness of the importance of good health in men, boys and their families.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

World Day Against Child Labour aims to focus attention on the global extent of child labour and the efforts needed to eliminate it.

National/State: International

Organisation: Australian Red Cross Blood Service

World Blood Donor Day is a reminder of the importance of blood donation. 1 in 3 people will need blood in their lifetime, while just 1 in 30 people currently donate.

National/State: International

Organisation: Australian Homoeopathic Association

A week used to raise awareness of the benefits of homeopathic treatments. Celebrated on the anniversary of the birthday of Dr Samuel Hahnemann, the founder of homœopathy, in 1755

National/State: International

Organisation: International Network for the Presvention of Elder Abuse

Used to spread knowledge of the abuse of Older people, World Elder Abuse Awareness day aims to eliminate the abuse of older people across the world.

National/State: International

Organisation: Cancer Council NSW

The City Mile Dash is used by the NSW Cancer Council to spread awareness of the dangers of an unhealthy and sedentary lifestyle in men, who have a 1 in 2 chance of developing cancer in their lifetime. To encourage a healthy lifestyle all Sydney workers are encouraged to enter and enjoy the mile dash alongside the Sydney Harbour.

National/State: NSW

Organisation: United Nations

World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought to promote public awareness of the issue, as well as developing a focus on the effects of climate change.

National/State: International

Organisation: Alcohol and other Drugs Council of Australia

Drug Action Week aims to the issues that accompany drug and alcohol use. It is also an opportunity to recognise the achievements of the workers who work hardest to reduce drug-related harm.

National/State: National

Organisation: The Refugee Council Of Australia

Refugee Week is used to inform the public about refugees and celebrate positive contributions made by refugees to Australian society.

National/State: National

Organisation: Queensland Community Foundation

The purpose of Philanthropy Week is to raise awareness of philanthropy itself, honour those who make an outstanding contribution to the community and advance support for the state's charities and community service organisations through sustainable giving. During the week the Queensland Community Foundation holds an awards luncheon to recognise significant philanthropic achievements.

National/State: QLD

Organisation: United Nations

World Refugee Day is used to raise awareness of the difficult lives led by refugees.

National/State: International

Organisation: MND Australia

MND Global Day raises awareness of Motor Neurone Disease (MND), which is a progressive neurological disease.

National/State: NSW

Organisation: United Nations

The UN Public Service Day intends to celebrate the value and virtue of public service to the community; highlight the contribution of public service in the development process; recognize the work of public servants, and encourage young people to pursue careers in the public sector.

National/State: International

Organisation: Multiple Sclerosis Queensland

The Brissie to the Bay Bike Ride is a fundraising event for Multiple Sclerosis.

National/State: Brisbane

Organisation: Continence Foundation of Australia

World Continence Awareness Week aims to increase understanding of the health habits that will help people avoid bladder and bowel issues in their lifetimes.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

The Day of the Seafarer celebrates the unique contribution made by seafarers from all over the world to international seaborne trade, the world economy and civil society as a whole.

Organisation: United Nations

International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is a day used to raise awareness of the threat to public health and safety that illicit drugs pose.

National/State: International

Organisation: Positive Women

Positive Women Victoria strongly supports Global HIV testing day with the aim to assist people who are HIV positive and are not aware of their status in order to prevent further HIV infections

National/State: National

Organisation: SIDS and Kids

Red Nose Day is the national fundraising event day for SIDS and Kids held throughout the month of June. Red Nose Day provides critical funding for a 24-hour bereavement support service, community education to reduce incidents of SIDS and fatal sleeping accidents, and research into areas such as SIDS and stillbirth. To date it is estimated that SIDS and Kids has saved the lives of over 6,500 babies across Australia.

National/State: National

Organisation: Scleroderma Australia

We campaign for a world in which equal rights, treatments and care are offered to people with scleroderma, and in which such diseases are not forgotten, but afforded the consideration and attention of other more widely known diseases. Having a disease that nobody has heard of is a lonely business. So World Scleroderma Day was created to raise awareness of what it means to have this disabling disease. June 29 is a day to recognise the bravery of those who live with this disease and to demand equal treatment and equal care for people with scleroderma.

National/State: International

Organisation: NAIDOC

NAIDOC celebrations are held around Australia in the first full week in July to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. NAIDOC originally stood for 'National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee'. This committee was once responsible for organising national activities during NAIDOC Week and its acronym has become the name of the week itself. The week is celebrated not just in the Indigenous community, but also in government agencies, schools, local councils and workplaces.

National/State: National

Asalha Puja, or Asanha Puja or Dhamma Day, is a celebration of the foundation of the Sangha (the community of Buddhist monks).

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

International Day of Cooperatives is a day used by the United Nations to celebrate the role of cooperatives in economic social and cultural development, and in the achievement of social policy objectives.

National/State: International

Organisation: Diabetes Australia

Each year Diabetes Australia celebrates National Diabetes Week to raise awareness about diabetes in Australia. The campaign aims to educate Australia of the risk factors for type 2 diabetes and how type 2 can be prevented.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

World Population Day serves to both celebrate humanity itself, and to remind us that we need to look after each other and the planet we live on.

National/State: International

Organisation: Fire Foundation Ltd

Friday The 13th "Don't Be One Of The Lucky Ones" is a National Fire Safety & Awareness Campaign focussing on fire prevention at home. The campaign runs each time Friday The 13th appears in a calendar year and is focussed on each campaign the focus is on a different safety message. Here's a taste of what you'll see http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3a3teIqU61M&feature=related

National/State: National

Organisation: Farmsafe Australia's Operations Centre

National Farm Safety Week aims to raise awareness of farm safety issues in rural communities across Australia.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

The UN and the Nelson Mandela Foundation call on people across the world to devote 67 minutes of their time to helping people on Nelson Mandela International Day - one minute for each year Nelson Mandela devoted his life to serving humanity.

National/State: International

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Every day during this month, Muslims around the world spend the daylight hours in a complete fast.

National/State: International

Organisation: Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience (AIME)

AIME sells hoodies designed by one of their students each year to raise funds used to help indigenous students finish school at the same rate as every Australian child.

National/State: National

Organisation: Australian Pituitary Foundation Ltd

Pituitary disorders are relatively rare yet complicated conditions that require specialist coordinated health care. Pituitary Awareness Week aims to increase the availability of information and support for the disorders.

National/State: National

Organisation: Fragile X Association

Fragile X Awareness Day is held on July 22 internationally. It is held to raise awareness of Fragile X syndrome, the most common cause of inherited intellectual disability.

National/State: National

Organisation: Lifeline Australia

Stress Down Day is a fundraising event to help cover the cost of running Lifeline's 24 hour telephone counseling line - 13 11 14. Workplaces participate by enjoying a day of stress reducing activities, including wearing casual dress to work, in exchange for a donation to the cause.

National/State: National

Organisation: Planet Ark

Each year around 250,000 Australian school students participate in Schools Tree Day - a special National Tree Day event just for kids. It's a great opportunity for children to learn about nature, get outside and have fun at the same time. This Schools Tree Day, all schools and their students are encouraged get involved and plant some trees for a healthier planet!

National/State: National

Organisation: Hepatitis Australia

World Hepatitis Day raises awareness of chronic hepatitis B and C with events and activities organised in all participating cities.

National/State: International

Organisation: Planet Ark

Planet Ark is calling for people to connect with nature by getting involved in National Tree Day, Australia's largest tree-planting and nature care event.

Celebrating its 17th year in 2012, National Tree Day, proudly sponsored by Toyota, sees communities work together to protect their natural environment by planting and caring for native trees and shrubs. Each year over 300,000 people take part at 3,500 sites around the country. More than 17 million seedlings have been planted in the event's history.

People can participate by becoming National Tree Day site coordinators or attending plantings in their local areas.

National/State: National

Organisation: The Stepfamily Association of Victoria

The last Sunday in July has been designated as 'National Stepfamily Awareness Day'. A day dedicated to the stepfamily, it provides an opportunity to acknowledge, promote and celebrate the great work that stepfamilies do.

National/State: National

Organisation: Australian Federal Police

National Missing Persons Week aims to raise awareness about the significant number of young Australians reported missing. Out of the estimated 35,000 people who are reported missing each year, approximately 20,000 are under the age of 18.

National/State: National

Organisation: The Centre for Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral Palsy Awareness Week aims to increase public knowledge of the permanent physical condition that affects movement. Cerebral Palsy is the most common physical disability in children.

National/State: National

Organisation: Lifes Little Treasures

National Premmie Day is a national day to celebrate premature babies and children, and to remember those babies that didn't survive.

National/State: National

Organisation: IAIM Australia

The first week of August is traditionally Infant Massage Awareness Week. This is an opportunity for IAIM members across the country to highlight the benefits of regular massage can bring to carers and babies.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

World Breastfeeding Week aims to protect, promote and support breastfeeding, the best way to provide newborns with the nutrients they need.

National/State: International

Organisation: Children's Medical Research Institute

Jeans for Genes Day is the major fundraising event for the Children's Medical Research Institute, who is on a mission to reduce the number of children born with genetic illnesses.

National/State: National

Organisation: Homelessness Australia

Homeless Persons Week is aimed at raising awareness of the roughly 105,000 Australians who are homeless.

National/State: National

Organisation: Mission Australia

While most Australians spend winter nights at home with the heater on, there are an estimated 105,000 homeless individuals in Australia. Mission Australia raises funds and awareness during the Winter Sleepout by encouraging people to leave the comfort of their homes and spend one night as a homeless person to see how difficult it really is.

National/State: National

Organisation: Anxiety Recovery Centre Victoria

Anxiety Disorders week is an awareness week for OCD and Anxiety Disorders. Events include support and social activities, seminars and promotional activities.

National/State: VIC

Organisation: United Nations

This is a day used to celebrate and recognize the stories, cultures and unique identities of indigenous peoples around the world.

National/State: International

Krishna Janmashtami is a Hindu celebration of the birth of Krishna, an avatar of the god Vishnu.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

International Youth Day is a reminder that investment in the worlds youth will provide a better future for all.

National/State: International

Organisation: ausEE Inc.

National EOS Awareness Week is a week to raise awareness for eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders in Australia.

National/State: National

Organisation: Department of Education

National Science Week celebrates the contributions Australian Scientists have made to the world. There are hundreds of activities, events and debates across the country during the week.

National/State: National

Organisation: Local Government and Shires Associations of NSW

Local Government Week provides a focus for councils to promote the importance of Local Government to the community. The week provides opportunities for public participation in Local Government and shows the community how they can be part of their council's day-to-day activities. It enables councils to educate the community about the importance of the services that local government provides.

National/State: NSW

Organisation: Brain Injury Australia

Brain Injury Australia is the peak body representing people with acquired brain injury (any damage to the brain that occurs after birth). Brain Injury Awareness Week aims to increase understanding of the various issues associated with acquired brain injuries.

National/State: National

Organisation: Haemochromatosis Australia

Haemochromatosis Awareness Week aims to raise awareness of haemochromatosis, or inherited iron overload disorder. Haemochromatosis is the most common genetic disorder in Australians of European descent. The disorder can lead to serious, even fatal health issues if untreated but once diagnosed, is easily treated. The week will highlight the need for early detection and treatment so that those born with the genetic condition can lead normal, healthy lives.

National/State: National

Organisation: Optometrists Association Australia's Children's Vision

Children's Vision Week, organised by the Optometrists Association Australia, is a week for children to learn about the importance of good vision. Children are taught the importance of regular eye checks with an optometrist, and the importance of good eyesight during their school years.

National/State: National

Organisation: RSCPA

Cupcake Day for the RSPCA is the biggest bakeoff in the Southern Hemisphere and involves Cupcake Cooks around Australia baking cupcakes and hosting a Cupcake Party to raise vital funds for the RSPCA.

National/State: National

Organisation: World Vision Australia

The 40 Hour Famine is one of Australia's biggest youth fundraising events. participants raise money by spending 40 hours fasting, and getting a taste of what it's like to go without.

National/State: National

Organisation: Children's Book Council Of Australia

Schools and public libraries celebrate Children's Book Week every year by offering activities and competitions to encourage children to enjoy reading.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

World Humanitarian Day is used to increase public awareness about humanitarian assistance activities worldwide and the importance of international cooperation in this regard, as well as to honour all humanitarian and United Nations and associated personnel who have worked in the promotion of the humanitarian cause and those who have lost their lives in the cause of duty.

National/State: International

During the month of Ramadan Eid al-Fitr is a time of charitable giving, peace-making and spiritual renewal.

National/State: International

Organisation: Deafness Forum of Australia

Hearing Awareness Week provides an opportunity to raise community awareness of hearing impairment and ways to protect your hearing.

National/State: National

Organisation: Speech Pathology Australia

Speech Pathology Week showcases the speech pathology profession and highlights how important literacy is to everybody at all stages of life.

National/State: National

Organisation: Keep Australia Beautiful National Association

The aim of the Keep Australia Beautiful campaign is to demonstrate the easy ways people can help the environment and also save money by making a few simple changes around the home and in their daily lives.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition is intended to inscribe the tragedy of the transatlantic slave trade in the memory of all peoples. In accordance with the goals of the intercultural project "The Slave Route", it should offer an opportunity for collective consideration of the historic causes, the methods and the consequences of this tragedy, and for an analysis of the interactions to which it has given rise between Africa, Europe, the Americas and the Caribbean.

National/State: International

Organisation: Cancer Council Australia

Daffodil Day raises essential funds for cancer research, prevention and support services.

National/State: National

Organisation: Parkinson's NSW & Parkinson's Victoria

Australia's Unity Walk for Parkinson's is an event used to raise funds for important research, and increase the support services provided for people living with Parkinson's, their families and carers.

National/State: NSW, VIC

Organisation: Australian Meals on Wheels Association

National Meals on Wheels Day is an opportunity to celebrate the 78,700 volunteers that contribute to their community.

National/State: National

Organisation: Australian Government Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations

National Literacy and Numeracy Week promotes the importance of literacy and numeracy and celebrates schools making a difference in literacy and numeracy education.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

International Day Against Nuclear Tests is used to remind UN member states of the dangers of nuclear weapons, and the hope that nuclear disarmament is possible.

National/State: International

Organisation: The Salvation Army Crisis Services

Overdose Awareness Day is a commemorative day which acknowledges individual loss and family grief when loved ones have suffered overdose and are either permanently injured or have lost their life. The day also aims to raise awareness about overdoses from the use of both licit and illicit drugs.

National/State: National

Organisation: Medecins Sans Frontieres Australia

This annual day raises funds for the emergency medical work of Medecins Sans Frontieres by encouraging doctors to support their colleagues in the field, who practise medicine at the frontline in communities confronting disaster, epidemic, war and other crises

National/State: National

Organisation: Wattle Day Association

Wattle Day is a celebration of our country and our fellow Australians.

National/State: National

Organisation: The Australian Thyroid Foundation

The ATF Gold Bow Day highlights the increase in thyroid cancer and gives support to thyroid cancer patients undergoing Radio-Active Iodine Treatment.

National/State: National

Organisation: The Asthma Foundation of Australia

National Asthma Week raises awareness of the implications of living with asthma, and the ways to manage it.

National/State: National

Organisation: Spina Bifida Foundation of Vic (inc)

Spina Bifida Awareness Week aims to increase awareness of the disease that affects roughly 5,000 Australians.

National/State: VIC

Organisation: Adult Learning Australia

Australia's only national celebration and promotion of all forms of adult learning.

National/State: National

Organisation: The Department of the Environment and Heritage

Biodiversity Month is held in September each year. The Department of the Environment and Heritage provides support throughout the year with a variety of resources for local groups promoting biodiversity.

National/State: National

Organisation: Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia

Prostate Cancer Awareness Month is held throughout September.The national event is used to raise awareness of the importance of mens health, and regular prostate checks.

National/State: National

Organisation: Heart Foundation

The Heart Foundation saves lives and improves health through funding world-class cardiovascular research, guidelines for health professionals, informing the public and assisting people with cardiovascular disease. As a charity, the Heart Foundation relies on donations and gifts in wills to continue our lifesaving research, education and health promotion work.

National/State: National

Organisation: Australian Koala Foundation

Save the Koala Month aims to raise awareness and funds for the conservation of wild koalas and their habitats.

National/State: National

Organisation: Centre for Excellence in Child and Family Welfare

The primary aim of Foster Care Month is to raise the profile of fostering in the wider community by promoting the great work done by existing substitute care services in both the Government and non-Government sectors. The month also creates an opportunity to focus on the secondary aim of increasing recruitment by highlighting the ongoing need for the recruitment of appropriate foster care families

National/State: National

Organisation: Perth Zoo

Tiwest Night Stalk is a nation wide spotlight survey of native and feral animals. During the six weeks of Night Stalk, surveys are conducted around Australia by schools, community groups, other organisations, families and individuals. The surveys, which can be completed on any night between 1st September and 16th October, are designed to collect information about animal numbers and their distribution. This information is important and can be used by conservation agencies to assist with the management of Australian wildlife

National/State: National

The best day to celebrate all fathers across the world and to show your appreciation for them.

Organisation: NAPCAN Foundation

In Australia, a child is abused every 13 minutes. You can help prevent it. So, don't just stand there. Join the thousands of Australians who get involved in National Child Protection Week every year.

National/State: National

Organisation: Legacy

Legacy Week is an important fundraising day for many Australians. Over 100,000 war widows and 1900 children and people with disabilities benefit from the money raised. Many Australians regard this as one of the best times to remember the sacrifice made by many Australian soldiers and their families.

National/State: National

Organisation: Australian National Flag Day Association

Many cities and towns around Australia hold a special flag raising or other ceremony to mark 'Flag Day', but if this is not possible there are many other ways that the "birthday" of our flag can be celebrated, eg:

• Local schools could be encouraged to arrange special flag raising assemblies on the day so that students gain an appreciation of the history and significance of our flag;
• Councils could put out a press release asking local residents, businesses, and organisations to make a special effort to fly the flag; and/or
• Suggesting that service organisations, sporting clubs and scout/guide troops etc that holding meetings to raise the flag or otherwise make special mention of Flag Day at the beginning or end of proceedings.

Some councils even make flag badges or flag stickers available so that residents can 'show the flag' all day. A wealth of information about 'Flag Day', and about the unique story of the Australian flag, can be found at www.australianflag.org.au. Look under 'Flying the Flag' for ideas about celebrating 'Flag Day 3 Sep', and under 'Schools' for information about 'Preparing for Flag Day'.

National/State: National

Organisation: Landcare Australia Ltd

Landcare Week is an initiative of Landcare Australia that aims to 'grow' the landcare movement by recruiting new volunteers and rewarding groups' hard work. Landcare Week provides the perfect opportunity for existing groups to hold an event and get people involved.

National/State: National

Organisation: Parkinson's Victoria

Parkinson's Awareness Week aims to increase the public's understanding of the neurological disorder. It is also an opportunity to raise funds for the cause.

National/State: VIC

Organisation: Eczema Association of Australasia Inc

Eczema Awareness Week aims to raise awareness of the condition of eczema and of the Association as a source of help and support.

National/State: National

Organisation: The Australian Council for Health, Physical Education and Recreation

The purpose of the day is to highlight the good work going on in schools and the wider community by promoting health and physical education on a national scale through media and local activities/celebrations.

National/State: National

Organisation: The Department of the Environment and Heritage

National Threatened Species Day is held on 7 September each year to encourage the community to help conserve Australia's unique native fauna and flora. We can all take action to prevent further extinctions by restoring healthy numbers of endangered species and ecological communities in the wild.

National/State: National

Organisation: Fight Cancer Foundation

Footy Colours Day is held on Friday 2 September and is the one day in September that you can fight cancer and change lives. Thousands of Australians unite and wear their favourite football team's colours - AFL - NRL - Rugby Union - Soccer, to help raise money for children living with cancer. So show your true colours in your workplace, school or club and make a difference to the lives of children fighting cancer, by participating in Footy Colours Day. Wear your football teams colours, guernseys, scarf, beanies and make a donation to Fight Cancer Foundation

National/State: National

Organisation: Bravehearts

White Balloon Day is a day to 'lift the cone of silence' that surrounds child sexual assualt, and is used to increase understanding of the difficult issue.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

Today one in five adults are illiterate, which causes many social and educational issues. International Literacy Day is a reminder of the importance of literacy.

National/State: National

Organisation: Parkinson's WA

This event is a fun way for family, friends, loved ones and supporters to make a difference in the lives of people living with Parkinsons. Hosted by Parkinsons Western Australia, this is their largest annual event designed for people of all ages. All money raised goes towards the provision of vital care and support services to people living with Parkinson's, their family carers and loved ones.

National/State: WA

Organisation: National Organisation for Fetal Alcohol Syndrom and Related Disorders (NOFASARD)

On the ninth day of the ninth month every year, people all around the world gather for events to raise awareness about the dangers of alcohol use during the nine months of pregnancy and the plight of individuals and families living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD).

National/State: International

Organisation: Look Good...Feel Better

Dream Week is a special seven day period in September devoted to raising funds and awareness for the Look Good…Feel Better program.

Dream Week - 7 days of hope offers exactly that - 7 days of hope. Hope to someone that is undergoing cancer treatment and is unsure how they will look in the morning. Hope to a cancer patient who has started to lose their confidence because their appearance is changing. Look Good…Feel Better workshops provide that hope, and Dream Week helps provide Look Good…Feel Better workshops.

Dream Week is seven days of activity across Australia that showcases the Look Good…Feel Better program and the difference it can make not only to a cancer patients life, but to the lives of the family of a cancer patient.

National/State: National

Organisation: Suicide Prevention Australia

World Suicide Prevention Day is about bringing together communities, researchers, practitioners and politicians, clinicians and those in government, individuals with lived experience and those bereaved by suicide, to demonstrate a commitment to reducing the incidence of suicide in Australia, to raise awareness of this significant national challenge and to share information about ways to effectively take action as individuals and a community.

National/State: International

Organisation: GAIN Inc (Gynaecological Awareness Information Network)

It could be your mother, your grandmother, your daughter, sister, cousin, aunt or friend - it's very likely that someone close to you has been affected by a gynaecological condition, whether it is vulva cancer, endometriosis, cervical cancer or polycystic ovaries. National Gynaecological Awareness Day was established to encourage the breaking down of social taboos surrounding gynaecological issues and promote open and frank discussion about issues affecting gynaecological conditions.

National/State: National

Organisation: National Stroke Foundation

National stroke week raises awareness of stroke and the early warning signs of a stroke. Stroke is Australia's second single greatest killer, with over 60,000 strokes occurring every year. Get involved and hold an activity or display in your community to support the national campaign.

National/State: National

Organisation: ANZSES Australian and New Zealand Solar Energy Society.

Sustainable House Day aims to raise awareness of the environmental benefits of making your house more 'green'. It is a reminder for us to remember we are leaving footprints on the planet, and we need to be careful with our energy usage.

National/State: National

Paryushana is a religious festivals for those who follow Jainism. it is a time of soul cleansing, where followers are washed of their sinfulness and return to a pious and virtuous state.

National/State: International

Organisation: Lymphoma Coalition

World Lymphoma Awareness Day is held on September 15 every year and is a day dedicated to raising awareness of lymphomas. Launched in 2004 and now an established date in the health calendar, WLAD provides a focus for doctors, nurses, patient support groups, patients and their families to join forces in a united campaign to inform the public about lymphoma, its signs and symptoms and how it affects lives of thousands of people around the world

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

The International Day of Democracy provides an opportunity to review the state of democracy in the world. Democracy is as much a process as a goal and only with the full participation of and support by the international community, the national governing bodies, civil society and individuals, can the ideal of democracy be made into a reality to be enjoyed by everyone, everywhere.

National/State: International

Organisation: Cancer Council

Cancer Council Walk to Work Day encourages organisations to support their employees to build regular walking into their daily routines by becoming Walking Workplaces. Individuals are encouraged to put their feet first and register to participate in Cancer Council Walk to Work Day and raise much-needed funds for Cancer Council Australia. Cancer remains one of Australia's biggest health problems and is expected to claim over 40,000 Australians in 2011. An estimated 114,000 new cases of cancer were diagnosed in Australia in 2010. And 1 in 2 Australians will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

This commemoration around the world offers an opportunity to focus attention and action at the global, regional and national levels on the protection of the ozone layer. All Member States are invited to devote this special day to promotion, at the national level, of concrete activities in accordance with the objectives and goals of the Montreal Protocol and its Amendment.

National/State: International

Organisation: Clean up Australia

Clean Up the World partners with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to inspire and empower communities to "clean up, fix up and conserve their local environment" through carrying out initiatives ranging from waste removal and tree planting to water and energy conservation projects. Clean Up the World and its participating organisations mobilise an estimated 35 million volunteers from 120 countries annually.

National/State: International

Organisation: Australian Government

The day is an opportunity for all of us to take pride in our citizenship and reflect on the meaning and importance of being Australian. It is a chance for all of us to think about the events and people that shaped our nation. We also reflect on the role we play in building Australia and shaping our future.

National/State: National

Organisation: Diabetes Australia

Diabetes Buzz Day is the annual fundraising day for Diabetes Australia. Through the month of September Bee merchandise will be for sale at selected retail outlets across the country culminating to the signature day on Friday the 17th September. On Diabetes Buzz Day hundreds of volunteers will hit the streets of many major cities banging the diabetes drum to spread the word and raise much needed funds for diabetes awareness, research, education programs and advocacy services.

National/State: National

Organisation: Australia and New Zealand - Parks Forum

World Parks Day is an opportunity to celebrate our parks and green spaces. Everybody is encouraged to celebrate World Parks Day in their own way.

National/State: International

Rosh Hashanah is a Jewish celebration that is commonly referred to as Jewish New Year. It is a time of casting off sins and preparing for a new year.

National/State: International

Include A Charity is designed to raise awareness of the ease and effectiveness of leaving a gift in your will. It encourages people to consider leaving a gift to charities after considering family and friends. Include A Charity is the result of over 130 of Australia's favorite charities working together to do what no single charity has ever been able to achieve on its own - change the way Australians think about including charities in their will. Gifts in wills form the foundation of many Australian charities. Without them, many charities simply would not exist.

National/State: National

Organisation: National Herbalist Association of Australia

Herbal Medicine Week promotes the use of herbal medicines. This annual event is held by the National Herbalists Association of Australia and is spreading like wild herbs as a very popular event held nation wide on the 3rd week of September every year.

National/State: National

Organisation: Leukaemia Foundation

This September, thousands of people will Light the Night at celebrations across Australia. You can help create a sea of glowing lights at this Australian-first event by lighting a balloon to remember, celebrate and give hope to patients and families living with leukaemias, lymphomas, myeloma and related blood disorders. Dedicated to improving the quality of life for patients and their families here and now, the Leukaemia Foundation also gives hope for a brighter future by raising awareness of the impact of blood cancers in our community and funding the work of Australia's best researchers.

National/State: National

Organisation: The United Nations'

The United Nations' International Day of Peace - marked every year on September 21 - is a global day when individuals, communities, nations and governments highlight efforts to end conflict and promote peace.

National/State: National

Organisation: Playgroup Children's Foundation

By dressing up a little or a lot and making a donation, you will be helping very young children across the State. Many children do not attend childcare or kindergarten so families depend on the work of Playgroup Queensland to provide social and educational support for children's young developing minds and provide emotional support for parents.

Funds raised will go towards expanding Playgroup Queensland's Early Intervention programs for vulnerable families including Indigenous families in remote, rural and metropolitan locations, families with an autistic child or children, families with a child or parent with a mental illness, families with a parent or child with a disability, young and teenage parents and families affected by environmental disasters.

National/State: QLD

Organisation: Alzheimer's Australia

World Alzheimer's Day, September 21st of each year, is a day on which Alzheimer's organizations around the world concentrate their efforts on raising awareness about Alzheimer's and dementia. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, a group of disorders that impairs mental functioning. At the moment, Alzheimer's is progressive and irreversible.

National/State: International

Organisation: Alzheimer's Australia

To raise awareness of dementia around the theme 'Risk reduction and how you can mind your mind' to reduce the risk of dementia and other illness.

National/State: VIC

Organisation: World Carfree Network

World Carfree Day aims to encourage people around the world te leave their cars at home for the day. The World Carfree Network promotes a global carfree culture.

National/State: International

Yom Kippur is the Jewish day of atonement.

National/State: International

Organisation: Epilepsy Centre

1 in 50 Australians have Epilepsy and it affects more people than cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, muscular dystrophy and blindness….combined. After the headache, Epilepsy is the second most common condition to affect the brain and over 3.5 Million people worldwide develop it every year.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

World Tourism Day represents an opportunity to address how tourism can help build tolerance and understanding worldwide by serving as a catalyst for communication and exchange between the different cultures of the world.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

On average one person dies from rabies every 10 minutes. World Rabies Day aims to raise awareness of this disease, and promotes ways to prevent the disease.

National/State: International

Organisation: The AUSPOL - Police Welfare Foundation

The National Police Remembrance Day honours the memory of those police men and women who have given their lives in the service of the community.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

World Maritime Day is a UN awareness day for issues concerning the maritime industry.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

Cardiovascular diseases are the worlds biggest killers. World Heart Day is a reminder to take care of your heart.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

The Intwernational Day of Older Persons is a celebration of the older people in all societies, and a reminder to continue developing a society for all ages.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

World Teacher days falls on the first Monday of October each year and celebrates the essential roles of teachers in providing quality education at all levels.

National/State: International

Organisation: RSCPA

There is always lots happening during RSPCA Awareness Week, which runs during the first week of October every year. The week is an opportunity for the RSPCA to raise awareness about their work to care for and protect animals. Contact your local RSPCA to find out about activities in your state.

National/State: National

Organisation: Edgar's Mission Farm Sanctuary

Be Kind to Animals Week is used to honour the animals of this world that have stood by us; who have been loyal, loving, and protective of their human friends.It is also used to inspire people to create change to make this world a better place for animals, educate and promote awareness of some of the issues faced by animals in our community, and to encourage kindness to all animals.

National/State: National

Organisation: August Podiatry Council

The entire month of October is dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of healthy feet

National/State: National

Organisation: Injury Control Council of WA (Inc)

Community Safety Month aims to promote awareness about a broad range of community safety issues, including personal safety, road safety, suicide prevention, emergency management, safety in public places, safe work practices and many more. Community Safety month is coordinated by the Injury Control Council in WA (ICCWA) and reminds us all that we all have a part to play in making our communities safer.

National/State: WA

Organisation: Mental Health Association NSW

Mental Health Month NSW is part of a national mental health promotion campaign held in October each year and is coordinated by the Mental Health Association NSW with funding by NSW Health. Its main aim is to promote social and emotional wellbeing to the population in NSW, enhancing the coping capacity of communities, families, individuals, and increasing mental health literacy.

National/State: NSW

Organisation: Heart Foundation Tasmania

Walktober highlights the many health and social benefits of regular walking as well as the abundance of walking opportunities available throughout the state. Walktober encourages you to step out and organise or join one of the exciting walking events happening near you.

National/State: TAS

Organisation: Cancer Council Australia

The Cancer Council Australia's Girls Night In is an opportunity to gather all your female friends, family, colleagues and neighbours for a night of fun that also helps raise money to conduct research into and provide support for breast and gynaecological cancers.

National/State: National

Organisation: Assistance Dogs Australia

Dogtober is a great way to get involved with Assistance Dogs Australia, have some fun, raise funds and wear a collar. It is a month where people are encouraged to take it into their own hands to raise funds for Assistance Dogs Australia.

National/State: National

Organisation: Wildlife Victoria

Every day hundreds of native animals are injured or killed in Victoria. It is a time for us to find ways in which we can better assist our wildlife to ensure our wild friends have a future. You can help in many ways, from simply reading a book and learning more to having a discussion with family and friends about our incredible, world renowned marsupials and birds.

National/State: VIC

Organisation: United Nations

Celebrated on the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi the International Day of Non-Violence aims to disseminate education and understanding of the positive effect of non-violence.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

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

National/State: International

World Animal Day was started in 1931 at a convention of ecologists in Florence as a way of highlighting the plight of endangered species. Since then it has grown to encompass all kinds of animal life and is widely celebrated throughout the world. October 4 was chosen as World Animal Day as it is the Feast Day of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

World Space Week is used to celebrate the contributions of space science and technology to the betterment of the human condition.

National/State: International

Organisation: RSCPA

Happy Tails Day is a fundraising event for the RSPCA. If you have a pet or just love animals the RSPCA invites you to donate money or buy their merchandise to keep them fighting for animal rights.

National/State: National

Organisation: R U OK?

Are You Ok Day is an annual national day of action that aims to get Australians, right across the entire spectrum of society, connecting with friends and loved ones, by reaching out to anyone doing it tough and simply asking: "Are you ok?" talking about suicide with someone at risk actually reduces the chances of them taking their life. It is the one thing we can all do to make a real difference. R U OK ? Day is about prevention, preventing little problems turning into big problems.

National/State: National

Organisation: Mental Health Association Qld

Mental Health Week is an annual national awareness event held in October every year. The aim is to raise awareness of the importance of mental health and wellbeing in the wider community, to increase community awareness and education about mental health issues and to encourage participation in life enhancing lifestyles

National/State: QLD

Organisation: Haemophilia Foundation Australia

The week aims to raise awareness of haemophilia and other bleeding disorders.

National/State: National

Organisation: National Fire Protection Association

Fire prevention week aims to educate the community, particularly children, about the dangers of fire and the importance of prevention techniques.

National/State: International

Organisation: Down Syndrome Association of Victoria

Various activities and displays promoting community awareness of Down syndrome.

National/State: VIC

Organisation: United Nations

The Postal serivces in many countries use this event to introduce or promote new postal products and services.

National/State: National

Organisation: United Nations

World Mental Health Day aims to raise public awareness of mental health issues, and increase understanding of the strain they can place on the individual, their families, friends and communities.

National/State: International

Organisation: Bicycle Victoria

Ride 2 Work Day has become an established event on the annual workplace calendar. Whether you're a regular cycle-commuter or you're just thinking about having a go, now is the time to start planning for Ride to Work Day.

National/State: National

Organisation: Victorian State Government

Fire Action Week calls on all Victorians to prepare for the upcoming fire season, and CFA will be urging everyone, no matter where they live, to take responsibility for their community and for themselves.

National/State: VIC

Organisation: Petstock

Visit Petstock and meet some loving pets in need of a new home. Local rescue groups will be showing available for adoption, as well as providing advice on responsible pet ownership and choosing the best pet for your family. All pets come vet checked, vaccinated, warmed, micro chipped and de-sexed, ready for their new homes

National/State: National

Organisation: Vision 20/20 Australia

World Sight Day seeks to raise public awareness on low vision. Blindness and low vision are critical issues in Australia, especially with an ageing population. World Sight Day is a global initiative providing an opportunity to raise the profile of the causes of blindness and vision impairment and the preventative measures.

National/State: National

Organisation: Arthritis Victoria

Every year on International Arthritis Day people with arthritis from around the World join together to make their voices heard and raise awareness of arthritis, an often painful disease that affects millions of individuals across the globe.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction is a day for city-planners and governments across the world to think about the safety of the people who rely on them in the instance of a natural disaster. While it is not a day to actively decrease the instances of natural disasters, it is a reminder to these people that they must reduce the death tolls of the most major disasters.

National/State: International

Organisation: Anti Poverty Week

Anti-Poverty Week aims to strengthen public understanding of the causes and consequences of poverty and hardship around the world and in Australia; and to encourage research, discussion and action to address these problems, including action by individuals, communities, organisations and governments.

National/State: National

Organisation: Nutrition Australia

National Nutrition Week encourages Australians to learn about making healthy food and lifestyle choices.

National/State: National

Organisation: Australian Water Association

National Water Week is a week-long event held in October across Australia each year. Coordinated by the Australian Water Association, National Water Week is the only event in Australia that provides a national focus for the achievement of improved water management and conservation. Anyone can get involved, with many organisations and communities running events across the country.

National/State: National

Organisation: Carers Australia

Carers Week was established to promote and raise awareness of the valuable role that carers play in our community and to generate discussion about carer issues. Carers Week also provides an opportunity for carers to come together, support one another and share ideas and information.

National/State: National

Global Handwashing Day 2011 will revolve around schools and children. On Global Handwashing Day, playgrounds, classrooms, community centers, and the public spaces of towns and cities will be awash with activity to drive handwashing behavior change on a scale never seen before, bringing the critical issue to center stage. So get out the soap and scrub those hands.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

On the International Day of Rural Women we recognise the critical role and contribution of rural women, including indigenous women, in enhancing agricultural and rural development, improving food security and eradicating rural poverty.

Organisation: The Conservation Council of WA

The aim of Conservation Week is to increase community awareness of contemporary environment issues and to encourage involvement in active conservation activities throughout WA, in line with the Conservation Council's strategic plan.

National/State: WA

Organisation: White Wreath Association

Every year during the third full week of October is Sock it to Suicide week, the White Wreath Association encourages everyone to wear bright coloured socks to their workplace, school, etc and donate a gold coin in support of the White Wreath Association.

National/State: National

Organisation: YWCA Victoria

The YWCA Week Without Violence is an annual global campaign to stop violence in all its forms. Throughout the week activities focus on raising awareness, promoting attitude change and enabling individuals and organisations to begin positive actions towards ending violence in their communities.

National/State: VIC

Organisation: United Nations

World Food Day is a reminder that everybody deserves and needs access to food, particularly those who can't keep up with rising food prices

National/State: International

World Spine Day is a part of the Bone and Joint Decade National Action Week where global activities raise awareness of the needs and issues of people affected by musculoskeletal disorders. . Each year in Australia, World Spine Day is observed on October 16 by the Chiropractors' Association of Australia to encourage the nation to put aside at least one day to consider and improve their own spinal health. Visit www.chiropractors.asn.au to find out what activities your local chiropractor has planned to celebrate the day.

Navaratri is the hindu festival that translates to "nine nights". It is a festival for followers to invoke the energy of the Universal Mother.

National/State: International

Organisation: United Nations

The UN developed this day to promote awareness of the need to eradicate poverty and destitution in all countries, particularly in developing countries - a need that has become a development priority.

National/State: International

Organisation: Multiple Sclerosis Society of Queensland

MS MoonWalk is designed to encourage people of all ages and fitness levels to gather under an October full moon and enjoy a fun, and most importantly, safe 10km stroll around the Brisbane River, while helping to raise money for people living with MS.

National/State: QLD

Organisation: Hear and Say Centre for deaf children and their families

Loud Shirt Day is a national fundraising event for deaf children's charities across Australia. To participate all you need to do is wear your loudest shirt on the day and raise funds for charity.

National/State: National

Organisation: International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF)

World Osteoporosis Day raises public awareness about osteoporosis. Its held on the 20 October each year.

National/State: International

Organisation: The Australian Herpes Management Forum (AHMF)

National Herpes Day was established by the Australian Herpes Management Forum in 2004 and is run each year on October 20th to raise awareness of herpes viruses within the Australian community, provide facts, break down myths and to encourage people to visit their Doctor or health care provider to get screened.

National/State: National

Organisation: Deaf Australia

Starts on the 3rd Saturday of each October for a week.

The National Week of Deaf People is a week-long national celebration of Deaf individuals and the Deaf Australian Community. It is an opportunity for the Deaf to celebrate their community, language, cultural and history; make the public awareness of their local, state and national communities; and recognise their achievements. It is also an opportunity for organisations involved with, or wishing to be involve with the Deaf community to: showcase their services and/ or products; build / maintain relationships with Deaf people; and be recognised for giving Deaf people a fair go in their workplace.

National/State: National

Organisation: Occupational Therapy Australia

The OT profession will be the focus in a week long national initiative which aims to promote and celebrate the important role occupational therapists play in the allied health sector. The key message from the week is that occupational therapy enables people to live life to its fullest by enhancing their ability live better with injury, illness or disability. Occupational therapists can be the difference between existing and living life to the full and making the best of each moment in life

National/State: National