The Italian National Ball is one of Australia’s most prestigious charity gala events and will be held on Saturday 30 May 2026 at the Sydney Event Centre.
Celebrated under the auspices of the Italian Consulate in Sydney and the Embassy of Italy in Canberra, this iconic evening marks Festa della Repubblica Italiana, Italy’s National Day commemorating the establishment of a Republic post-WWII, while honouring Co.As.It.’s enduring service to the Italian-Australian community. In 2026, the Italian National Ball will mark a particularly significant moment, celebrating the 80th Anniversary of the Italian Republic.
Each year, the Italian National Ball brings together an influential audience of more than 500 guests, including leaders from Australian and Italian politics, business, media and community organisations. Past attendees have included Australian Prime Ministers Anthony Albanese and Julia Gillard, reinforcing the Ball’s reputation as a flagship event on Sydney’s cultural and corporate calendar.
In 2026, the Ball will be hosted at the Sydney Event Centre, The Star Sydney, a premier waterfront venue overlooking Darling Harbour in the heart of Pyrmont. This world-class venue provides a striking backdrop for an evening of elegance, connection and celebration, offering the perfect setting for one of Australia’s largest and most respected Italian-Australian charity events. Guests will enjoy the exceptional catering of Doltone House, renowned for its exquisite dining experiences and refined cuisine, elevating the evening with a menu that reflects both quality and sophistication.
All proceeds from the Italian National Ball support Co.As.It.’s community programs, delivering care and culturally appropriate services to the community. Over the years, funds raised have enabled initiatives such as the 10,000 Italian Roses Project, Early Intervention Dementia Program, Bowel Cancer Screening Project, Social Isolation and Active Ageing programs, Mental Health Support programs, and many other vital initiatives that respond to evolving community needs.
This year, funds raised by Co.As.It. will go towards supporting adults living with disability within our community who are often underrepresented and fall between service categories.
Co.As.It. will establish a group-based program delivering culturally and linguistically appropriate services focused on recreation, wellbeing and social connection, with the provision of transport. This program will reduce loneliness and psychological distress, by providing meaningful respite and promoting dignity, independence and inclusion within the community.
By attending or supporting the Italian National Ball, guests and partners play a direct role in strengthening the wellbeing of the community and ensuring that vulnerable members are not left behind.