Polish Community Council marks 75 years in Australia
Polish Community Council celebrates 75 years with a free gala in Sydney. Book online to attend.
What’s Happening?
The Polish Community Council of Australia (PCCA), one of the nation’s oldest and largest ethnic organisations, is proudly celebrating its 75th anniversary.
This historic milestone reflects decades of continuous service to Polish migrants and their descendants throughout Australia.
To mark the 75th anniversary, the PCCA is hosting a special gala concert in Sydney. The event will feature performances from four renowned Sydney-based folkloric dance ensembles:
Kujawy
Lajkonik
Podhale
Syrenka
Audiences will also enjoy a classical music program presented by two acclaimed Polish-Australian artists:
Pianist: Konrad Olszewski
Soprano: Marta Nowicka
While the concert is free, online ticket reservations are essential. Tickets can be secured HERE.
Why It Matters
The PCCA was officially established in January 1950 during a landmark congress of Polish community delegates held in Sydney. This event marked the beginning of coordinated national cooperation between Polish organisations in Australia. In the post-war years, the Council played a vital role in supporting newly arrived Polish migrants by helping them find employment, secure housing, and obtain Australian citizenship.
Today, the PCCA continues to uphold its founding mission. As a national federation, it promotes and preserves Polish culture, language, history, and traditions through:
Community gatherings
Patriotic celebrations
Commemorative events
Youth training programs
Conferences across Australia
Local Impact
On the Gold Coast, families with Polish roots have maintained strong cultural ties thanks to organisations aligned with the PCCA. These activities strengthen the community’s identity and foster understanding among younger generations. Cultural preservation through language education, music, and dance is especially important in regional and urban centres alike.
By the Numbers:
1950: Year the PCCA was established at a delegate congress in Sydney.
23: Member organisations currently affiliated with the PCCA across all states and territories.
6: Performing groups — four folkloric ensembles and two classical musicians — featured in the gala concert.
Zoom In
“The PCCA is not just an organisational structure – it is a community of people who, for generations, have nurtured their Polish identity while integrating into Australian society,” said PCCA President Henryk Kurylewski. “Our 75th anniversary is a moment of pride, reflection and gratitude to all those who have helped build this institution over the decades.”
Zoom Out
From post-war resettlement to the 21st century, the PCCA’s role has expanded to encompass a national network. Its focus remains the same: to serve Polish-Australians and promote multicultural understanding throughout Australia. The 75th anniversary is not just a celebration, but a tribute to endurance, identity and unity.
What to Look For Next?
To learn more about the PCCA’s history, mission, and ongoing 75th anniversary celebrations, visit: 🌐 www.polishcouncil.org.au