On Anzac Day, we pause to honour the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of the ANZACs and all who have served.
Friday 25 April 2025 marks the 110th anniversary of the Gallipoli Campaign of WWI, the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during WWI, as well as commemorating all Australians who have served in times of peace and war.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have a long tradition of fighting for Country and continue to serve among our military forces. Although not permitted to become Australian citizens until 1967, military service is one area where Indigenous Australians have experienced less discrimination than in the wider Australian society and were treated with respect during their time serving. For many, the war provided an opportunity to escape the poor working conditions, racial prejudice and control they experienced on their own lands and gave them a chance to earn a wage.
The term used to refer to many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander soldiers who served for Australia is “Lost Diggers”. Although not recorded, it is estimated that there were significant numbers of Lost Diggers during the first ( approximately 1,000 ) and second ( approximately 3,000 ) World Wars. Their time in Australia’s armed forces often went unrecognised and their stories often not fully documented.
We remember their legacy and express our gratitude to those that sacrificed so much of themselves to make the world a safer place. Today, we encourage you to take a moment to reflect and learn more about the stories and experiences of Indigenous service people and veterans.
Photo credit: R. W. Saunders (left), was the first Aboriginal to be commissioned as an officer in the Australian Army. Photo courtesy of the Australian War Memorial.
For further information, you can watch the video below:
The forgotten ANZACs: Honouring Australia’s Indigenous soldiers | Paint it Blak with Emma Garlett
