Indonesia's 80th anniversary celebrated in Sydney with positive spirit and hope for 'healthier Indonesia'

Flag hoisting ceremony commemorating Indonesia's 80th independence held at Kensington Park in Sydney, 17 August 2025. Credit: SBS Indonesian

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Indonesians as well as Australians in Sydney participated in the celebration of the 80th Independence Day anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia. What are their hopes for the republic?

The commemoration of the anniversary of Indonesia's Independence Day was held not only in the homeland, but also carried out by Indonesian representatives abroad.

In Sydney, the Consulate General held a flag-raising ceremony at the Kensington Park on 17 of August, followed by an introduction to the new Consul General, Pendekar Muda Leonard Sondakh, and fun games and competitions organised by Indonesian Students Association. There were also various Nusantara dishes offered by food stall vendors and music and songs performed by the Indonesian musicians.

Live band at the celebration of Indonesia's 80th anniversary in Sydney, 17 August 2025. Credit: SBS Indonesian

The event was also attended by the mayor of Randwick, Dylan Parker, Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Assistant Minister for Immigration, Matt Thistlethwaite MP, and Cathy Sargent-Luntungan, daughter of one of the Kawanua community prominent figures Timothy Luntungan who was involved in the Black Armada movement which became a key part of Indonesia's bid for independence.

L-R: Indonesia's Consul General Pendekar Muda Leonard Sondakh, Mayor of Randwick City Cr Council Dylan Parker, Cathy Sargent-Luntungan, and Fabiola Noralita Sondakh. Credit: SBS Indonesian

SBS Indonesian interviewed Mayor Dylan Parker and Matt Thistlethwaite MP about what they think of the Indonesian community in Australia. Several Indonesians in Sydney also shared their hopes for their homeland on its 80th anniversary.