Indigenous Australians at War

Indigenous men and women have combined modern military and uniquely indigenous skills in the service of their country. The stories presented in this exhibition are drawn from all over Australia while a larger history emerges in which all Australians share. The dignity and pride of Aboriginal Australians is seen in these images as they have taken their place protecting their country in wartime. 


From the arrival of the earliest non-indigenous settlers in Australia the long history of conflict between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians, combined with the lack of equal rights, throws into perspective Aboriginal service and sacrifice in war and peacekeeping. The readiness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to enlist beside white Australians to fight abroad for their country and for the British Empire is all the more noteworthy when viewed against their lack of citizenship and the erratic administration of Defence policies that discouraged their enlistment.


This book by The Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, commemorates, acknowledges and tells the story of the Indigenous men and women who served for Australia through interactive touch photo galleries and movies. 


Please note:


Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised that this application may contain images and voices of deceased people.