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  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are advised that the following content may depict or refer to individuals who have died. 

    Recognising Indigenous service and legacy 

    The Indigenous Veterans’ Ceremony acknowledges the contributions of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have served or sacrificed for Australia.

    It has often been overlooked that many Indigenous veterans were denied the same rights and entitlements as other Australians who fought for their country, at the same time, in the same wars. 

    The Indigenous Veterans’ Ceremony is an important opportunity to remind us of this injustice. The event also aims to create a deeper understanding of our military history, and deeper recognition of all who served, by helping to tell this story. 

    2025 Indigenous Veterans’ Ceremony

    Join us in person or online to honour Australia’s Indigenous service people, past and present. 

    Date and time

    Saturday 31 May 2025 | 10am AEST

    Location

    Cairns Esplanade Cenotaph, 119 Esplanade, Cairns (Gimuy)

    My passion comes from serving and protecting my country. [In the Torres Strait] Indigenous veterans were our role models, and we honour them because of our culture. 

    - Uncle Phillip Bowie,

    Navy Indigenous Elder

    This memorial service is a light shining on our national journey towards reconciliation. A strong, united nation that acknowledges all those that have served in its defence. 

    - Ray Rosendale CSM,

    Navy veteran

    Sharing yarns

    22 May 2024

    Serving country and community

    “It's one of the proudest periods in my life.” 2024 Indigenous Veterans’ Ceremony keynote speaker Paul Walker reflects on his Army career, and the past and future of Indigenous service.
    Veteran stories
    History
    Commemoration