The Royal Australian Navy will host the 2026 Kakadu Fleet Review in Sydney Harbour on 21 March, helping to mark 125 years of Australia’s Navy and its service to the nation.
Up to 30 warships from 19 countries will enter Sydney Harbour, providing multiple opportunities for media throughout the day.
There will be a media doorstop with the Deputy Prime Minister, The Hon Richard Marles MP and Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, AO RAN following the ceremonial entry of ships.
After the doorstop, media are invited to board a steber that will follow the reviewing ship, HMAS Leeuwin as it conducts the official fleet review.
Media are to register their interest to attend the event by 11:00am Friday 20 March to navy.media@defence.gov.au.
Media are asked to assist in alerting the public about the potential for aircraft noise across the weekend.
Schedule of Events
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 6am – 12pm | Ceremonial entry of ships into Sydney Harbour |
| 12:45pm – 1:15pm | Media doorstop on board HMAS Canberra |
| 2pm – 4pm | Review of International Navy Fleet |
| 2:45pm – 3:15pm | Combined Royal Australian Navy and Royal Australian Air Force aerial display |
| 3:45pm | Ceremonial Gun Salute |
| 4pm | Public boating and commercial vessel sail past |
| 6:45pm | Historical flotilla procession |
| TBC | Ceremonial sunset (TBC) |
Media Notes
Media are required to bring photo ID and to wear appropriate clothing and enclosed footwear.
For more information, please visit: Exercise Kakadu Fleet Review | Royal Australian Navy
Imagery and vision will be available at: http://images.defence.gov.au/S20260149 .
Media Contacts
Navy Media: navy.media@defence.gov.au
Defence Media: media@defence.gov.au
Details
Date
– 21 March 2026, 7:30 pm
Location
Sydney HarbourFlying schedule
- As per the Schedule of Events