On 24 August 1991, Ukraine declared its independence, restoring the sovereign statehood of a nation with a history stretching back over a thousand years.
That same spirit of self-determination endures today — tested, but unbroken.
Ukrainians continue to pay an extraordinarily high price for their independence and freedom. Today, they are giving their lives to defend their country and people against russia’s illegal and genocidal invasion.
Despite this, the Ukrainian people will proudly mark this milestone anniversary — a testament to their strength, indomitability, fortitude, and unwavering readiness to fight for victory and freedom.
Here in Australia, our community has come together in a powerful show of solidarity with festivals, concerts, cultural performances, rallies and flag marches held across the country. In Brisbane, iconic buildings will be lit in blue and yellow in honour of Ukraine.
The AFUO extends its heartfelt thanks to our state-councils/hromady and member organisations for their tireless work in organising these events. Your dedication keeps Ukraine’s voice strong in Australia.
As we honour this resilience, we are reminded hat solidarity must go beyond words. The need for air defence is urgent. Ukraine’s allies must immediately accelerate the delivery of air defence capabilities — countries that possess these capabilities have the power to save lives today. We call on the Anthony Albanese Government to continue advocating strongly on the world stage for this acceleration, and to maintain and grow its own support for Ukraine’s defence.
Here is a special message from Paul Grod, President of the Ukrainian World Congress – Свiтовий Конґрес Українців (UWC) — the global voice for the Ukrainian diaspora — in honour of Ukrainian Independence Day 2026.
Slava Ukraini!
Ukrainian Community of Queensland Inc.Ukrainian Council of NSW – ОУГ НПВAssociation of Ukrainians in VictoriaAssociation of Ukrainians in SAAssociation of Ukrainians in TasmaniaUAANT : Ukrainian-Australian Association of Northern Territory IncorporatedUkrainian Association Western Australia
