a web publication of The Buddhist Federation of Australia Inc.
UN VESAK 2026
Group Photo of the Sangha, VIP Guests, and Devotees following the UN Vesak 2026 Ceremony at the Main Shrine of Minh Quang Monastery.
Australian Observance of the United Nations Day of Vesak 2026
Message on the Day of Vesak From His Excellency António Guterres, UN Secretary-General
On the Day of Vesak, Buddhists around the world commemorate the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha.
This year, Vesak comes at a moment when the human family is embroiled in geopolitical tensions, division and conflict.
In 2023 I had the honour of visiting the Buddha’s birthplace in Lumbini, Nepal. It reinforced my conviction that the antidote to this turmoil can be found in his timeless teachings of non-violence, compassion and service to others.
Guided by the Buddha’s example, let us summon our shared humanity and build the more peaceful and sustainable world all people need and deserve.
Happy Vesak Day to all.
António Guterres, Secretary-General
1 May 2026
Vesak Message from The Hon Anthony Albanese MP, Prime Minister of Australia
The Australia Observance of United Nations Day of Vesak 2026
Opening Speech- Chair’s Message Senior Venerable Thich Phuoc Tan OAM
As we gather at the Minh Quang Monastery in the vibrant heart of City of Fairfield to celebrate the United Nations Day of Vesak, we commemorate the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha. This year, the United Nations invites us to reflect on the theme: “The Buddhist Way of Building Peace and Harmony.”
While Vesak is a sacred cornerstone of the Buddhist calendar, its message belongs to all of humanity. The essence of the Buddha’s teaching—centered on metta (loving-kindness), compassion, and mindfulness—transcends the boundaries of religion, culture, and faith. It offers a timeless blueprint for navigating the complexities of our modern world.
In an era often marked by division, these teachings remind us that world peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but the presence of inner tranquillity and mutual respect. Regardless of your personal beliefs, we can all find common ground in the practice of non-violence and the pursuit of collective happiness.
Today, let us reflect on our shared responsibility to act with empathy. By cultivating peace within ourselves, we contribute to a more harmonious society and a more resilient global community. May this Vesak inspire us all to turn wisdom into action and compassion into a lived reality for everyone.
May Kindness, Compassion and Equanimity be present at your every action, speech and thought. Happiness be present at your every moment.
UN VESAK PHOTOS
Sangha on Alms Round (UN Vesak 2026 at Minh Quang Monastery)Alms offering to Sangha from Worshippers (UN Vesak 2026 at Minh Quang Monastery.)Alms offering to Sangha (UN Vesak 2026 at Minh Quang Monastery.)Alms offering to Sangha (UN Vesak 2026 at Minh Quang Monastery.)Monastic Prayer Before the Lunch Offering (UN Vesak 2026 at Minh Quang Monastery.)Monastic Prayer Before the Lunch Offering (UN Vesak 2026 at Minh Quang Monastery.)Monastic Prayer Before the Lunch Offering (UN Vesak 2026 at Minh Quang Monastery.)Sangha procession to the Main Shrine for the UN Vesak 2026 Opening Ceremony at Minh Quang Monastery. The UN, Australian, and Buddhist flags, representing the spirit of the Australian Observance of UN Vesak Day 2026, are ceremonially carried to the Main Shrine for the Opening Ceremony.
The UN, Australian, and Buddhist flags, representing the spirit of the Australian Observance of UN Vesak Day 2026, are ceremonially carried to the Main Shrine for the Opening Ceremony.
Senior Venerables, led by Ven. Phrakhru Bhavanayanwited (left), present the Buddha Statue in homage ahead of the UN Vesak 2026 Ceremony.
MC Ms. Chollanart Nilphan commences the solemn proceedings of the UN Vesak 2026 Ceremony at Minh Quang Monastery Canley Vale.
Welcoming Speech by Most Venerable Thich Minh Hoi, Abbot of Minh Quang Monastery and Vice Chairman of the Australian Observance of UN Vesak Day 2026, at Minh Quang Monastery.Flowers Offering by Buddhist Youth Leaders in Celebration of the Australian Observance of UN Vesak Day 2026, at Minh Quang Monastery Canley Vale NSW AustraliaSenior Venerable Thich Phuoc Tan (Centre), President of the Buddhist Federation of Australia Inc., Abbot of Phuoc Hue Temple (NSW) and Quang Minh Temple (Victoria), Chair of the UN Vesak 2026 Organising Committee.Senior Venerable Thich Phuoc Tan (left), President of the Buddhist Federation of Australia Inc., Abbot of Phuoc Hue Temple (NSW) and Quang Minh Temple (Victoria), and Chairman of the Australian Observance of UN Vesak Day 2026 Celebration Organising Committee, delivers his Opening Speech, accompanied by Ven. Phrakhrusamu Satit Thitadhammo, Secretary of the Buddhist Federation of Australia Inc.Dr Patricia Jenkins delivers the UN Secretary‑General’s Vesak Message on behalf of UNAA NSW.Ms. Anne Stanley MP, Federal Member for Werriwa, delivers the Prime Minister, Hon Anthony Albanese MP’s Vesak Message and reflects on the significance of the Vesak Celebration for Buddhist devotees.Ms. Dai Le MP, Federal Member for Fowler, reflects on the significance of the Vesak Celebration for Buddhist CommunityMr.Tri Vo MP, State Member for Cabramatt, reflects on the significance of the UN Vesak 2026 Celebration.
Guided Meditation and Candle Lighting, led by Venerable Phrakhru BhavanayanwitedGuided Meditation and Candle Lighting, led by Venerable Phrakhru Bhavanayanwited
Ms Anne Stanley MP, Dr. Patricia Jenkings, President of UNAA in NSW and Ms Trudi Mitchell (back), CEO of Australia for UNHCR in silent meditation during the Guided Meditation. Mrs Kai Hillams, President of Asian Australian Business Council, in silent meditation during the Guided Meditation.
Ms Trudi Mitchell (left), CEO of Australia for UNHCR, Ms Kate Hoang, Fairfield Council Councillor and Ms Thda Yang Multicultural NSW (behind Ms Hoang) in silent meditation during the Guided Meditation.Ms. Denise Ora, CEO of Metropolitan Memorial Parks (NSW), in silent meditation during the Guided Meditation.Ms. Dai Le MP, Federal Member for Fowler, in silent meditation during the Guided Meditation.Dr. Patricia Jenkings, President of UNAA (NSW Division), in silent meditation during the Guided Meditation.Vote of Thanks by Ven. Phrasamu Atorn Dhammachandho Treasurer, Buddhist Federation of Australia.
Australian Observance of the United Nations Day of Vesak 