“Blak” diggers: an indigenous perspective

Lt Derrick VC DCM shaking hands with Lt Saunders Lieutenant (Lt) T.C. Derrick, VC DCM (right) shaking hands with Lt R. W. Saunders (left), as they congratulate each other following their successful graduation from the Officer's Cadet Training Unit at Seymour. Lt Saunders was the first Aboriginal commissioned in the Australian Army. AWM 083166

Suitable for primary and secondary school students. This program is adapted to suit students at different age and aptitude levels.

Key themes

This program will help students gain an understanding of the experience of indigenous Australians during war at home and abroad.

Strategic focus

Many Aboriginal Australians have been a part of the Australian armed forces since the Boer War. Although not permitted to become Australian citizens until 1967, service in the armed forces was one area where Aborigines experienced less discrimination than in the wider Australian society. This program explores some of their experiences and the impact these have had on the indigenous community and the wider Australian population.

Price: $5.50 per student, minimum charge $60.50 (incl. GST)

Duration: 1 hour

Maximum number: 60 students per hour

Group size: 15

Available: Daily 9 am – 3.30 pm

Memorial education staff facilitate this program.