Dialogues 2029

Unveiling the layers of our past through the power of knowledge, recollection and active dialogues.

Dialogues 2029 challenges the notion that our State’s history is frozen in time and instead sees Western Australia through realigned lenses of curiosity, discovery and wonder. 

By uncovering a narrative of untold stories and unheard voices it offers the opportunity to reshape our understanding of who we were, who we are and how we thrive in our evolving community.

Dialogues 2029 is a four-year program stimulating public dialogue and contemporary perspectives on the commemoration of Western Australia’s bicentenary.

Each year’s dialogue from 2026 to 2029 explores themes of place, people and perspective, inviting broad, bold and open conversations about our State’s histories and memories.

  • 2026: Menang Memories 
  • 2027: Words and Voices 
  • 2028: Untold Stories 
  • 2029: Sense of Place  

Through cross-sector partnerships, Dialogues 2029 will use the State Library’s valuable Western Australian collections to connect with the stories of the past and present. It will also enhance the way the State Library delivers services to the community, leaving lasting legacies well beyond 2029.  

Principles

  1. Aboriginal-led perspectives on 2029 are recognised, respected and valued.
  2. State Library collections are a source of discovery to foster dialogues about our histories, experiences and values in Western Australia.
  3. Partnerships across community, government, GLAM and academia are essential to stimulate engagement with our collections.
  4. The State Library’s collecting and sharing of Western Australian stories will create long lasting impact beyond 2029.

Outcomes

  1.  Histories, voices and experiences of Aboriginal peoples are respected, valued and celebrated.
  2. West Australians are empowered to understand many truths and perspectives about the past, discover new ideas and shape the future.
  3. The State Library is valued by the community as the home of Western Australian storytelling.
  4. The State Library’s collections continue to represent the rich and diverse voices of the Western Australian community.

The Dialogues 2029 program launched at the State Library with the opening of the  Kinjarling Djinnang Ngalak: Country Sees Us  exhibition in May 2026.  

For more information about Dialogues 2029 and how you can be involved, please contact info@slwa.wa.gov.au.