The NSW Government will continue its long-standing tradition of celebrating Lunar New Year with the state’s diverse communities by lighting the sails of the Sydney Opera House.

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said the sails of the Opera House will once again shine a brilliant red tomorrow night (Monday, 23 January) to symbolise good fortune, prosperity, happiness and new beginnings for Lunar New Year.

“The NSW Government has been joining communities across the state to celebrate this significant cultural event for more than a decade,” Mr Perrottet said.

“While Lunar New Year is significant to many across the state, it also represents much of what we all stand and hope for in a new year, especially new beginnings.

“To everyone celebrating the Lunar New Year, I wish you all prosperity, good health and fortune for the year ahead.”

Minister for Multiculturalism Mark Coure said events like Lunar New Year being openly celebrated by everyone shows that all the world’s cultures have successfully been brought together into a harmonious and respectful society.

“You will be hard-pressed to find such rich diversity proudly championed and celebrated like it is in NSW,” Mr Coure said.

“Lighting the sails of the Sydney Opera House is more than just keeping a tradition we started more than ten years ago. It is about showing communities and the world that we welcome everyone and value our diversity.

“I wish everyone a prosperous and happy Year of the Rabbit, and for those from a Vietnamese background, a very happy Year of the Cat.”

Lunar New Year is a 15-day celebration with the first new moon of the lunar calendar and ends with the next full moon. This year, Lunar New Year commenced today (Sunday, 22 January).

MEDIA: Clem Hall | Premier | 0499 818 662
Scott Hodder | Minister Coure | 0455 094 282