Over 2,000 visitors have discovered the Larrakia Cultural Centre in its first month of operation, ahead of its officially opened over the weekend by Senator the Hon Malarndirri McCarthy.

The centre is a permanent cultural home for the Larrakia people, offering locals and visitors an authentic cultural experience grounded in the knowledge, stories and continuing connection of Larrakia culture.

Larrakia Cultural Centre Chairperson Professor Helen Garnett said the official opening of the centre marked an exciting time for Larrakia people and Indigenous peoples across Australia.

Liam Stansfield performs at the Larrakia Cultural Centre official opening ceremony.

“Darwin is now home to the world’s most unique cultural centre, and we are thrilled to see it officially opened. The Centre is a huge achievement for Larrakia people and something to be very proud of.”

“The Larrakia Cultural Centre is a significant example of how Indigenous culture can be celebrated and preserved in a modern setting, while providing real economic and employment benefits to local people.”

Senator, the Hon Malarndirri McCarthy officially opening the Larrakia Cultural Centre with Larrakia Development Corporation Chairperson, Mark Motlop.

Larrakia Cultural Centre was first opened to Larrakia families on September 3 before welcoming visitors from September 7 and officially opened on October 9 2026. Development of the centre was led by Larrakia Development Corporation and funded through a $58.5 million grant from the Aboriginal Benefit Account.

Since opening to visitors, more than 2,000 people have visited the centre’s gallery, restaurant and workshop spaces and conference facilities. Professor Garnett said she was particularly excited about the uptake of the centre’s workshops program.

Guests at the Larrakia Cultural Centre official opening ceremony.

“The response to our workshop program has been fantastic. We’ve had high attendance at everything from our bushtucker tasting class to our Larrakia Conversation talk series.”

“It’s exciting to see people coming to the centre to learn about Larrakia culture and history, and to learn more about the Country they’re on, whether they have lived in the Darwin area their whole life or are visiting from overseas.”

Garramilla Dancers performing at the Larrakia Cultural Centre official opening ceremony.

Larrakia Cultural Centre is currently running workshops for all ages including crocodile painting and sculpture and spear making, along with the final talks as part of the Larrakia Conversations talk series.

You can find out more about what’s on at Larrakia Cultural Centre at www.larrakiaculturalcentre.com.au