Learning about First Nations military service in Australian history

 

The service of First Nations people is an important part of Australia’s military history. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have served Australia in wars, conflicts and peace operations. With active service on the home front and overseas, they have made significant contributions to Australia's defence capabilities. Our teaching resources explore the diverse experiences of First Nations veterans and bring their stories to life in the classroom.

Extension resources

The extension category includes useful resources containing detailed content that may require more advanced literacy skills. These resources could be used for independent research tasks and extension activities or be modified to meet your teaching needs.

Indigenous service during World War I - our website section

Indigenous service during World War II - our website section

Century of Service book series

Snapshots: Australians in war and conflict book

About our resources

Our free educational resources for Australian schools include:

  • classroom activities and lessons
  • interactive online activities
  • printable worksheets to consolidate learning
  • source analysis for primary and secondary sources
  • short films and videos
  • workbooks and books.

Education specialists and qualified historians design our resources so they:

  • are historically accurate
  • build knowledge, understanding and skills
  • engage your students.

Primary and secondary resources have classroom-ready content. Adapt them to cover topics broadly or in detail.

First Nations Australian service topics include:

  • First Nations Australians’ service in World War I
  • First Nations Australians’ service in World War II
  • First Nations Australians’ service on the home front in World War II
  • First Nations Australians’ leadership in service
  • First Nations people in service post-1945
  • First Nations people in service today
  • representation of First Nations Australians’ service in art and poetry
  • commemorating First Nations Australian service.

To bring history to life, we have included oral histories that capture veterans' stories and experiences.

Get in touch

To ask about our teaching resources or request a copy of any of our free printed books, contact us.


Last updated:

Cite this page

DVA (Department of Veterans' Affairs) ( ), Learning about First Nations military service in Australian history, DVA Anzac Portal, accessed 1 October 2025, https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/classroom/teaching/first-nations-australians
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