By Gill Callister – Mind Australia CEO
On Harmony Day (Saturday 21 March), we celebrate the strength that comes from our diversity. Australia is home to people from many cultures, languages and faiths, and this diversity is part of what makes our country so special. We understand that our differences are not something to fear; they are what make our communities richer, more resilient and more compassionate.
This year’s Harmony Day theme, ‘Everyone Belongs’, has never been more important. It reminds us that feeling accepted, safe and valued is fundamental to our wellbeing and to strong and connected communities.
In celebrating Harmony Day 2026 we recognise that many people are feeling the weight of conflict, division and uncertainty happening around the world at the moment. For some in our communities, these events are deeply personal and can impact our wellbeing, as well as our sense of belonging and community.
At Mind Australia and One Door Mental Health, we believe that harmony begins with care – care for ourselves and each other. Harmony means listening with empathy, showing kindness and creating services, offices and environments where everyone feels seen, supported and valued.
At services like the Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals in Victoria, or the Medicare Mental Health Centres we deliver in Canterbury and Cairns, we get to work with some of the most diverse communities in Australia. We get to see first-hand the healing power that empathy and willingness to embrace difference can bring to situations of distress and conflict.
The cultural diversity within these communities has also been extremely influential in shaping our Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals and Medicare Mental Health Centres, ensuring that the support and care provided is culturally appropriate, safe and accessible for everyone.
Today, and every day, we reaffirm our commitment to inclusive, culturally safe mental health support for people of all ages, abilities, cultures, genders, sexualities, backgrounds, bodies and spiritualities. Together, we can continue building communities where everyone feels like they truly belong.
Harmony Day invites people to wear the colour orange, which represents social communication, meaningful conversation and mutual respect. So, if you can, share your message of harmony by wearing something orange - anything from trainers, socks or shoelaces, a hairclip or maybe a whole ensemble!
From everyone at Mind and One Door, happy Harmony Day.