Branch: NSW1 min read
AKO NSW Branch holds its Annual General Meeting and elects a new team
The AKO NSW Branch held its Annual General Meeting on Saturday 22 August 2026 at the STARTTS meeting room on The Horsley Drive, Carramar.
Karen roots, Australian home
We bring the Karen community in Australia together through culture, language, sport and settlement support, with branches in five states and territories.
About us
About us
Since Karen people first settled in Australia, we have understood how important it is for our community to be organised. While we were still small, we began organising ourselves as a group, and as we grew, we formed a committee in 1996.
Read our storyWhy we exist
Our mission is to act as an umbrella organisation for the Karen people in Australia: to represent them, to voice their concerns on political, social, cultural and economic matters, and to encourage them to join us.
Where we’re heading
Our vision is a Karen community that is well established and settled in Australia.
To encourage and foster the development and perpetuation of the Karen culture and language.
What we stand for
What’s on
Save the date
Nothing planned yet
New events are added here as soon as they are planned. The newsletter is the easiest way to hear about them.
Our work
Four ways we serve our community
The programmes, events and support we offer across Australia.
Need help, or not sure where to start?
Questions, ideas or something you need help with? Send us a message or email the national office, and we will reply or put you in touch with your branch.
Or contact your branchOur stories
What’s been happening
Branch: QLD1 min read
Karen Martyrs' Day commemoration, Brisbane, 22 August 2026
On 22 August 2026, AKO Queensland held the 76th Karen Martyrs' Day commemoration service in Brisbane. Karen Martyrs' Day is observed each year on 12 August.
Branch: QLD1 min read
Karen wrist-tying ceremony, Brisbane, 22 August 2026
On 22 August 2026, AKO Queensland held the Karen wrist-tying ceremony (Lah Ku Kee Su) in Brisbane. The ceremony is an important annual celebration for Karen people around the world.
Get involved
There are many ways to take part and make a difference in our community. Find the one that is right for you.