The Western Australian Parliament brought together government representatives, Sikh community leaders and members of the Indian-Australian community in Perth to celebrate the 557th birth anniversary of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism.
The celebration was held at Parliament House in Perth on 10 November 2026, with Premier Roger Cook, Deputy Premier Rita Saffioti, Minister for Multicultural Interests Jessica Stojkovski and Consul General of India in Perth Kajari Biswas among the dignitaries attending.
Hosted by Jessica Stojkovski in collaboration with the Office of Multicultural Interests and Sikh gurdwaras at Bennett Springs and Canning Vale, the event recognised Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s enduring teachings of equality, compassion, humility, honest living and selfless service.
Members of Parliament, community representatives and officials from the Department of Home Affairs, Australian Federal Police and Western Australia Police Force also attended the gathering.
Celebrating the Teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
The programme highlighted Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s message of universal brotherhood and the belief that all people deserve equal respect, regardless of their background, caste or appearance.
Opening the proceedings, master of ceremonies Prabhjot Singh spoke about the continuing relevance of Guru Nanak’s teachings in encouraging equality, compassion, honest living and service to humanity.
Sarabjit Singh, President of Sikh Gurdwara Perth at Bennett Springs, emphasised the importance of recognising humanity beyond differences of background and identity. He also explained three central principles of Sikhism: Naam Japo, remembering and meditating on God; Kirat Karo, earning an honest living; and Vand Chhako, sharing with those in need.
He highlighted the gurdwara’s commitment to providing free meals through Langar, a community kitchen tradition that welcomes everyone. The service has continued for more than five and a half years since the COVID-19 pandemic, supported by volunteers and government assistance.
Premier Roger Cook Acknowledges Sikh Community’s Contribution
Premier Roger Cook spoke about the importance of protecting Western Australia’s inclusive and multicultural society, where people feel safe, welcomed and able to contribute.
Reflecting on the community’s role in the state, he thanked Sikh Australians for their contributions and said celebrations recognising cultural and religious milestones reaffirm Western Australia’s commitment to multiculturalism.
Deputy Premier Rita Saffioti also acknowledged the growth of the Sikh community, particularly the gurdwara at Bennett Springs, which is located in her electorate of West Swan.
She recalled being invited when the gurdwara was established in 2015 and noted that its visitor numbers had grown from an intended capacity of approximately 500 people to around 5,000. She recognised the work of volunteers and the community’s efforts to provide meals and support to people in need.
Jessica Stojkovski Highlights the Importance of Sharing
Minister for Multicultural Interests Jessica Stojkovski reflected on the importance of sharing and supporting others, drawing attention to a message she had previously shared in her inaugural parliamentary speech.
She said that those who are more fortunate should build a longer table rather than a higher fence, highlighting the universal value of generosity and inclusion across cultures and religions.
Stojkovski also thanked the Sikh gurdwaras for their community initiatives and ongoing service to people who need support.
Consul General Recognises Sikh Heritage in Western Australia
Consul General of India in Perth Kajari Biswas spoke about Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s significance as one of India’s great spiritual teachers. She highlighted his teachings of equality, compassion, humility and universal brotherhood, noting that they extend beyond religious and cultural boundaries.
Biswas also recognised the historical contribution of Sikh pioneers in Western Australia. Arriving in the region in the late 19th century, Sikh Australians worked as cameleers, hawkers, traders and harvesters, contributing to the development of regional communities. Some also served alongside Australian forces during the First World War.
She acknowledged the establishment of the Sikh Association of Western Australia in 1975 and the continuing relationship between the Indian Consulate and local Sikh organisations.
Langar Reflects the Sikh Principle of Equality
Amarjeet Singh, President of the Sikh Association of Western Australia, spoke about Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s message that there is one God and that all people are equal, regardless of caste or colour.
He described Langar as a practical expression of this belief, bringing people together to sit and share a meal without distinctions. He also thanked the Western Australian Government, the Indian Consulate and community representatives for supporting the celebration.
The formal proceedings concluded with a message encouraging the community to continue practising equality, humility, compassion and service. Sikh community organisations also presented tokens of appreciation to government leaders, the Consul General and representatives of attending agencies.
The celebration at Parliament House highlighted the enduring influence of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings and the contribution of Sikh Australians to Western Australia’s multicultural identity.
