Karen roots, Australian home
We bring the Karen community in Australia together through culture, language, community celebrations and settlement support, with branches in five states and territories.
In 7 weeksKaren New Year TournamentJJ Smith Park
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
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
1 min read
13th National Biennial General Meeting and Central Committee elections
The Australian Karen Organisation Inc (AKO) has successfully concluded its 13th National Biennial General Meeting and Central Committee elections, held from 3–5 October 2026.
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.
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.
Public notices
Australian Bureau of Statistics
Don’t wait, complete your Census today (opens in a new tab)
Read on Australian Bureau of Statistics
Australian Electoral Commission
Forming federal Government (opens in a new tab)
The Australian Parliament has two houses: the House of Representatives with 151 members and the Senate with 76 senators. The political party that wins the majority of seats in the House of Representatives forms the federal Government.
Read on Australian Electoral Commission
Get involved
Come along to an event, read what our branches have been doing, or get in touch. Everyone is welcome.