Starry Sari Nights – Lighting up Sydney with the colours of South Asia

Over three fabulous nights, the Macquarie Mall in the heart of Liverpool, Sydney, became a hub for South Asian culture, cuisine, fashion and performance.

The Starry Sari Nights, sponsored by the Australian Government’s Smartraveller, saw over 30,000 people attend the event.

Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Tim Watts, commented on the importance of these events.

“Australia is a thriving multicultural society, where more than half our population was born overseas or has a parent born overseas.”

“Our diversity connects us to every corner of the world, and events like Starry Sari Nights are a great chance to celebrate it,” said Assistant Minister Watts.

Starry Sari Nights was a showcase of South Asian colours and cuisine – the biryani, butter chicken pizza and Indian-style jaffles, and the nightly sari fashion shows were crowd favourites.

“Anyone who felt inspired to travel after visiting Starry Sari Nights should make Smartraveller their first destination. It provides Australians with the information they need to prepare and plan their overseas trip and make informed choices.”

Smartraveller provides advice on passports, visas, and travel insurance through to detailed travel advice on over 175 destinations. It also offers essential resources in multiple languages.

“Even if you travel regularly, it’s important to stay-up-to date with the latest Smartraveller information and subscribe for updates”, said Assistant Minister Watts.

Smartraveller’s travel tips for your future overseas adventures:

• Research and confirm visa and entry requirements for your destination. Reach out to the relevant embassy or consulate for up-to-date information.
• Consult a travel doctor to learn about recommended vaccinations and health precautions for your destination. Check your medication’s legality and requirements.
• Don’t forget your travel insurance and make sure you read the fine print on your policy.
• Be aware of how dual nationality may affect your travel plans and consular services.
• Respect the laws of the country you’re visiting, as they may differ from those in Australia.
• Be mindful of the culture and places of significance in the regions you explore. This includes wearing appropriate clothing at places such as temples.
• Leave a copy of your travel itinerary and insurance details with someone back in Australia.
• If you don’t already have a passport allow six weeks to renew or apply.

For more information about Smartraveller and to access their travel advice please visit https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/consular-services/communities

A few images from the festival are below, to download these and other high-res images go to: Starry Sari Nights – DFAT Media Library.

Liverpool Mayor, Ned Mannoun with members of the Smartraveller Team.

Left: One of the incredible dance performances. Right: Crowd at Starry Sari Nights.

Left: One of the gorgeous saris on display at one of the nightly fashion shows.

Right: The Smartraveller Team at the Starry Sari Nights, Smartraveller stall.

Thank you in advance for your support towards Smartraveller initiatives. With most community members travelling in the coming months, we greatly appreciate your assistance in ensuring that they receive this important travel advise, making for a fun and adventurous holiday.