School visits

Education programs

“Blak” diggers: an indigenous perspective

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

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

Curriculum links:

Studies of society and environment

• Investigation, communication and participation
• Time, continuity and change

Objective:

Students will gain an understanding of the experience of indigenous Australians during war at home and abroad.

The program:

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.