SYDNEY: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese attended Nepal Festival Sydney 2026 at Tumbalong Park on Saturday, November 7, marking a significant moment for the Nepalese community in Australia.
Wearing a traditional Nepali Dhaka topi, Albanese joined Nepalese Australians in celebrating Nepali culture and heritage. Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) Australia President Santosh Kunwar described the prime minister’s participation as a milestone that highlighted the community’s contributions to Australian society.
Addressing the festival, Kunwar called for greater Australian government support in youth development, community infrastructure and cultural programmes. He also urged stronger Australia–Nepal cooperation on climate change, particularly in Himalayan research, flood monitoring, early-warning systems and disaster preparedness.
Kunwar further called on Nepal’s government to recognise overseas Nepalis as partners in national development and ensure their rights, identity and sense of belonging. He said the diaspora could contribute to Nepal through investment, expertise, technology and international networks.
The NRNA Australia president thanked Albanese, organisers, volunteers, sponsors and community members for making the festival a success. Kunwar is serving as NRNA Australia president for the 2025–2027 term.
