Events and Functions;

Amongst our various commitments and obligations, we have two main functions throughout the year, Our National Independence Day Dinner and the Annual Youth Awards Night.

Independence Day Dinner

The ALA hosted Independence Day Dinner has been an annual event since 1952, and is held each year in Sydney under the patronage of The Ambassador Of Lebanon or the Premier of NSW.

Amongst the attendees are representatives of the Prime Minister of Australia and the Leader of the Federal Opposition, various religious leaders from all denominations, media and sports personalities and various pillars of the Australian Lebanese Community.

This function is usually attended by 500 to 600 people and covered by the media.

Youth Awards Night

This function was first held 18 years ago in Sydney. The aim of the night is to highlight the outstanding achievements of Australian Lebanese between the ages of 15 to 25.

This function was established in order to recognise young Australian Lebanese in the fields of sports, arts, music, culture, charity and community & social contributions. The focus of the night, however, is dedicated to the highest academic achievers. On the night, the highest UAI recipients of the previous HSC are recognized and encouraged, with the two highest UAI recipients rewarded with a meeting with the Prime Minister of Australia.

This function is also attended by state politicians including representatives of the Premier of NSW and Leader of Opposition, Ministers in attendance include education and fair trading ministers, various university chancellors, male and female sports personalities, academic personalities, representatives from the board of studies, representatives from the catholic education office and various principals and teachers from schools throughout NSW.

Approximately 25-30 Awards are presented each year in addition, each year, local comedians and singers provide entertainment for the evening. The media also highlights this event.