Diwali (Deepavali) 2025 in Australia

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is widely celebrated across Australia by Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Indian communities. The festival is marked with lights, prayers, fireworks, and cultural events in homes, temples, and public spaces.

Diwali (Deepavali): A Public Holiday?

Diwali (Deepavali) is not a public holiday in Australia, but it is widely celebrated by Indian and South Asian communities across the country with great enthusiasm. Businesses, schools, and offices remain open as usual.

Diwali (Deepavali)

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is an ancient Indian festival with roots in Hindu mythology. It celebrates the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. As Indian communities migrated to different parts of the world, they brought their cultural and religious traditions with them. Diwali began to be observed in Australia with the arrival of Indian immigrants, particularly from the mid-20th century onwards.

Over the years, as Australia's Indian population grew, so did the visibility and popularity of Diwali. Today, it is one of the most widely celebrated cultural festivals among Indian and South Asian communities in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. While not a public holiday, the festival has gained recognition across Australia through public events, cultural performances, and city-sponsored celebrations that promote multicultural harmony and inclusivity.

Diwali (Deepavali) Celebration in Australia

Diwali is a time of joy, light, and togetherness for Indian and South Asian communities across Australia. Celebrations often begin with cleaning and decorating homes with lamps (diyas), candles, and colorful rangoli patterns. Families gather to offer prayers to deities like Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. The lighting of lamps symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and positivity over negativity.

In major cities, Diwali has grown into a vibrant cultural event that extends beyond homes and temples. Public Diwali festivals are held in places like Federation Square in Melbourne and Parramatta in Sydney, featuring traditional music, dance performances, Indian food stalls, fireworks, and cultural displays. These events attract large crowds, including non-Indians, and showcase the rich diversity of Indian culture. Many schools, workplaces, and community groups also host Diwali-themed events to promote understanding and inclusiveness.

The importance of Diwali in Australia goes beyond religious practice. It is a symbol of multiculturalism, unity, and cultural pride. For many immigrants, celebrating Diwali allows them to stay connected to their roots while sharing their traditions with the broader Australian community. It fosters a sense of belonging and cultural exchange, enriching Australia's social fabric. Though it is not a public holiday, Diwali continues to grow in recognition and influence, highlighting the value of diversity and the joy of shared celebrations.

Diwali (Deepavali) Observances