World War I (1914–1918) · Term 2

Trench Warfare & New Technologies

Examine the nature of trench warfare on the Western Front and the impact of new military technologies like machine guns, gas, and tanks.

About This Topic

Indigenous Soldiers: The Unrecognised explores the often-overlooked service of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in World War I. This topic (AC9H9K06) examines why Indigenous Australians enlisted, despite not being recognised as citizens and often facing legal barriers to joining the army. Students investigate the experiences of these soldiers, who often found a rare sense of equality in the trenches.

However, the unit also looks at the bitter reality of their return: Indigenous veterans were often denied the same benefits as white soldiers (like 'soldier settlement' land) and returned to a society that still discriminated against them. This topic is essential for a complete and inclusive understanding of the Anzac story. Students grasp this concept faster through engaging with personal stories and comparing the treatment of veterans.

Active Learning Ideas

Inquiry Circle: Indigenous Anzac Stories

Groups research a specific Indigenous soldier (e.g., Douglas Grant or the Lovett brothers). They create a 'digital biography' that highlights their service and their life after the war.

⏱ 50 min·Small Groups

Generate mission

Gallery Walk: Equality in the Trenches?

Display quotes from Indigenous and white soldiers about their time together in the war. Students move in pairs to identify evidence of 'mateship' versus evidence of ongoing racism.

⏱ 40 min·Pairs

Generate mission

Think-Pair-Share: The Return Home

Students compare the benefits given to white veterans versus Indigenous veterans. They discuss in pairs how this treatment affected Indigenous communities and share their thoughts.

⏱ 25 min·Pairs

Generate mission

Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

Indigenous Australians weren't allowed to fight in WWI.

What to Teach Instead

While there were official bans, many Indigenous men successfully enlisted by 'passing' as other ethnicities or because recruiters ignored the rules. Using 'enlistment records' helps students see this reality.

Common Misconception

Indigenous soldiers were treated the same as everyone else after the war.

What to Teach Instead

They were often denied entry to RSLs and excluded from land schemes. A 'comparison chart' of veteran benefits helps students see this systemic discrimination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Indigenous Australians want to fight in WWI?

Reasons included a sense of duty, the desire for adventure, the chance for a steady wage, and the hope that their service would lead to better rights and recognition for their people.

How many Indigenous Australians served in WWI?

It is estimated that at least 1,000 to 1,200 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people served, though the actual number may be higher because ethnicity was not always recorded.

What was the 'Soldier Settlement Scheme'?

It was a government program to give returning soldiers land to farm. While many white veterans received land, Indigenous veterans were almost entirely excluded, and in some cases, their own traditional lands were taken for the scheme.

How can active learning help students understand the experience of Indigenous soldiers?

By using primary source 'detective' work to find the stories of individual soldiers, students can connect with the human reality of this history. Active learning helps them see the contradictions of the Anzac legend and encourages a more nuanced and inclusive understanding of Australian identity.

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