For Country, for Nation

An illustrated history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander military service.

Warning: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised that deceased people are represented throughout this publication.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have a long-standing tradition of fighting for Country, and they continue to serve with great honour in the Australian Defence Force. For Country, for Nation: an illustrated history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander military service tells the story of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' service in the defence of Australia, dating back to before Federation. It includes service in all conflicts and operations in which the nation's military forces have been involved.

Richly illustrated with over 230 images, For Country, for Nation uses artworks, photographs and objects from the Memorial's collection, combined with the voices of Indigenous men and women, to reveal their experiences of war. In doing so, For Country, for Nation considers why so many volunteered to serve when faced with entrenched discrimination in wider society.