NAIDOC Week 2026: A symbol of our commitment to reconciliation

Busways is joining communities across Australia in celebrating NAIDOC Week 2026 and this year's theme, "50 Years of Deadly."

This year's celebration is an important milestone in Busways' own reconciliation journey with the introduction of new uniforms featuring artwork from our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

The artwork was commissioned by contemporary Aboriginal artist Melissa Barton, a proud Boorooberongal clan woman, who created the piece 'Muru Dharug Gnurra' ('Journeys over Dharug Country').

It holds special significance for Busways. It reflects our beginnings in the heart of Dharug Country, where our founder, Richard "Dick" Rowe, operated his first bus services around Plumpton and Blacktown in 1942.

Developed in consultation with the Busways RAP Working Group, the new shirts are a symbol of our commitment to reconciliation, cultural respect and meaningful inclusion. They will be available for employees who wish to wear them, giving our people a visible way to show their support for reconciliation while sparking conversations about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Australian Aboriginal Busways bus driver and Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group member, Wayne Holten from Port Macquarie, played an important role in helping bring the new RAP uniform shirts to life.

The initiative reflects months of collaboration, discussion and feedback ensuring the shirts authentically represent Busways' reconciliation journey and the voices of those who helped shape them.

“The shirts are important to me and my people because they are a visual representation of support. They bring employees and passengers together and create meaningful conversations,” Wayne explained

The introduction coincides with NAIDOC Week's 2026 theme, "50 Years of Deadly," celebrating five decades of honouring the strength, resilience and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It recognises the Elders, leaders, artists, advocates and communities whose cultural leadership has shaped the movement and continues to inspire future generations.

Over the past year, Busways has continued to strengthen its commitment to reconciliation through the implementation of its Reflect RAP. Through cultural learning opportunities, community engagement and partnerships with Aboriginal organisations, we are building genuine relationships and creating pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples within the transport industry.

Wayne also explained that the introduction of the new RAP shirts is another meaningful step in embedding reconciliation into everyday workplace culture. It reflects our commitment to listening, learning and creating an environment where culture is recognised, celebrated and respected.

“I hope it encourages conversations, inspires learning and fosters greater cultural understanding. It’s great to see Busways join other businesses that have incorporated RAP artwork into their uniforms.”

Busways has further strengthened its commitment to reconciliation by displaying an Acknowledgement of Country at the entrance of every Busways depot and commissioning artist Mya Damon of Moonar Art to create an artwork that will be featured at our Lonsdale Depot in South Australia.

As NAIDOC Week celebrates 50 Years of Deadly, Busways is proud to continue its reconciliation journey, one built on genuine relationships, shared learning and a commitment to creating lasting opportunities for future generations.

"With further education, we can help create a future built on respect, understanding and opportunity for generations to come." Wayne Holten