Imperialism and Resistance: Australia's First Wars

17-18 September 2026
Australian War Memorial Theatre
From the colonial frontiers of Australia to the South African veldt, Australia's first wars were fought across the expanses of the British Empire.
Imperialism and Resistance: Australia's First Wars is a two-day conference that brings together authors, historians, and curators to reflect on the Australian Frontier Wars and Australia's earliest overseas military commitments to the British Empire.
Speakers will explore Australia's nineteenth-century military history, with presentations on the Frontier Wars, the mid-century New Zealand Wars, and colonial deployments to Sudan, China, and the South African (Boer) War.
Registration types:
- Early bird - $280 (available until 31 July 2026)
- Standard - $350
- Concession* - $280
- Virtual - $280
*Concession rates apply for students, pensioners, veterans, Memorial members, Memorial volunteers, and those with a valid health care concession card.
Early bird registration open
Join this major event examining the military history of the Australian colonial era.
