August 9 is the UN International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, and it’s the perfect time to celebrate the awesome achievements of Indigenous Australians across industries. Indigenous Australians have made significant contributions across a ton of different fields and we’ve got some we’d love to share with you in this blog.
Let’s explore some inspiring examples of Indigenous pioneers and discover how you too can make your mark.
Trailblazers in Medicine
Dr Kelvin Kong
Dr. Kelvin Kong, a proud Worimi man, is Australia’s first Indigenous surgeon. He specialises in ear, nose, and throat surgery and is dedicated to improving health outcomes for Indigenous communities. Dr. Kong’s journey is a testament to his hard work and he’s someone who’s dedicated to the importance of giving back to the community. He often travels to remote areas to provide essential medical services to those who need them most.
“Life changed one day at high school when two Indigenous Australian medical students instilled in us that if we had a dream, we should pursue it.”
–Dr. Kelvin Kong
Professor Sandra Eades
Professor Sandra Eades, a Noongar woman, is another pioneer in the medical field. She’s one of Australia’s leading researchers in Indigenous health and the first Indigenous medical doctor to be awarded a Doctorate of Philosophy in public health. Her work has significantly impacted Indigenous health policies and practices, and she continues to be a pivotal advocate for closing the gap.
“The evidence is clear that when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have a voice in policies and practices that affect them, the outcomes are better, resources are better-used, and we move closer to closing the gap in health equity,”
– Professor Sandra Eades
Innovators in Business
Leah Cameron
Leah Cameron, a Palawa woman, is a successful entrepreneur and lawyer who founded Marrawah Law, the largest Indigenous-owned law firm in Australia. Leah’s firm specialises in native title law, cultural heritage protection, and commercial law, supporting Indigenous communities and businesses. Her work ensures that Indigenous voices are heard and respected in the legal and business worlds.
“What I’d love to see is more of our mob practising as lawyers in commercial sectors.”
– Leah Cameron
Darryl Lyons
Darryl Lyons is a proud Maiawali man, passionate about what technology can do for agriculture and traditional owners to provide a more sustainable future. The goal of his business, Rainstick, is to integrate Indigenous sustainable practices with modern technology to address the climate and planet impact modern agriculture has. Rainstick has a passion to increase productivity, reduce waste in a more sustainable way and investigate and adapt Indigenous sustainable practices into modern AG systems.
“As we go forward trying to solve issues surrounding climate and biodiversity, I’m so passionate about creating a global solution. I think there’s just a tremendous opportunity that comes from exploring traditional and living knowledge systems.”
–Darryl Lyons
Leaders in Education
Professor Bronwyn Fredericks
Professor Bronwyn Fredericks, a proud Murri woman, is a distinguished academic and the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Engagement) at the University of Queensland. She’s dedicated her career to advocating for Indigenous education and research, creating opportunities for Indigenous students to excel in higher education. Her leadership has paved the way for many young Indigenous Australians to pursue their academic dreams.
“Education gives young people a choice, its gives young Indigenous people a choice. It enables them to see that there are options out there that they may not have considered before and it improves the outcomes for their lives.”
–Professor Bronwyn Fredericks
Dr. Chris Sarra
Dr. Chris Sarra, a Gurang Gurang and Taribelang man, is an educator and the founder of the Stronger Smarter Institute. He is known for his innovative approaches to Indigenous education, promoting high expectations and cultural pride among Indigenous students. Dr. Sarra’s work has transformed schools and communities across Australia.
“At my core here I am human, and my sense of being Aboriginal resonates very strongly, enhanced by the sense of time and place that locates me here.”
–Dr. Chris Sarra
Champions in Sports
Cathy Freeman
Cathy Freeman, a Kuku Yalanji and Birri Gubba woman, made history at the Sydney 2000 Olympics by winning gold in the 400 meters. Her victory was a proud moment for Australia and highlighted the incredible talent and determination of Indigenous athletes. Cathy’s legacy continues to inspire heaps of young athletes today to strive for excellence and embrace their cultural heritage.
“Disappointment and adversity can be catalysts for greatness. There’s something particularly exciting about being the hunter, as opposed to the hunted. And that can make for powerful energy.”
–Cathy Freeman
Adam Goodes
Adam Goodes an Adnyamathanha man, is a former AFL player and dual Brownlow Medalist. He is not only celebrated for his outstanding sports career but also for his activism against racism and his efforts to promote Indigenous culture. Adam’s influence extends beyond the sports field, making him a role model for many.
“You just have to be true to yourself, know where you come from, make sure that your relationships with family members back in country, back home, are really strong so that connection is always there.”
– Adam Goodes
Artists and Storytellers
Ronnie Tjampitjinpa
Born on Pintupi land in Muyinnga, Western Australia, Ronnie Tjampitjinpa’s career as an artist has spanned over 40 years. Working as a dedicated land claim activist since the 1970’s, Tjampitjinpa’s art consists of intricate dot and line paintings that explore stories of water and bushfire dreaming, and the Tingari cycle—legendary beings central to the beliefs of Pintupi people.
I’ve been painting since I had a black beard… for Fire Dreaming … we’d wait till the grass grew green and dry, then my mob would light a bushfire…”
–Ronnie Tjampitjinpa
Vernon Ah Kee
Vernon Ah Kee is a member of the Kuku Yalandji, Waanji, Yidinji and Gugu Yimithirr peoples. His multi-faceted practice includes works that range from large-scale drawings of his ancestors to hard-hitting text-based works and installations. Through clever puns and plays on words and objects, Ah Kee fuses the history and language of colonisation with contemporary racially motivated political issues to expose degrees of underlying racism in Australian society.
“Part of my role as a visual artist—and I’m not alone—is to
–Vernon Ah Kee
demonstrate to audiences that there are parallel narratives, which are generated
by the kind of parallel existences that different peoples in this country have.
Ultimately, it is a colonial experience—both of the coloniser and the colonised,
the persecutor and the persecuted.“
Your time to shine
These incredible individuals are just a few examples of how you can achieve great things with passion, dedication, and support. Whether you’re interested in medicine, business, education, sports, or the arts, there are countless opportunities for you to follow in their footsteps. Here are some tips to help you on your journey:
Connect with community
Building a strong support network is crucial for young Indigenous Australians. Seek out mentors, join Indigenous student groups, and connect with your local community. They can provide guidance, encouragement, and valuable connections. Here are some resources to help stay social and connected:
- Young Mob
- Queensland’s Indigenous Knowledge Centre
- Gondwana National Indigenous Children’s Choir
- Nungeena Aboriginal Corporation for Women’s Business
- Australian Men’s Shed Association
- North Queensland Combined Women’s Service – The Women’s Centre
- National Rural Women’s Coalition
- Yarn Safe
Use support services
Many schools and organisations offer support services specifically for Indigenous students. These can include tutoring, financial assistance, cultural programs, and career advice. Don’t hesitate to reach out and take advantage of these resources – they’re there for a reason.
Celebrate your identity
Embrace and celebrate your cultural heritage. Participate in cultural events, learn from your elders, and share your stories, because your unique perspective is your strength.
Seek financial support
There are heaps of scholarships and financial aid options available for Indigenous students. Look for opportunities that can help you achieve your educational and career goals without financial stress. We’ve got some here to get you started:
- ABSTUDY
- Relocation Scholarship
- Student Start-up Loan
- Tertiary Access Payment
- Assistance for Isolated Children Scheme
- Remote Area Allowance
- Certificate 3 Guarantee
- User Choice (apprenticeship and traineeship funding)
- Free Apprenticeships for Under 25s
- Fee Free TAFE
- Free Nursing
You can also check out our article on top scholarships for Indigenous students.
Learn from role models
Look up to successful Indigenous people in your field of interest, and make the most of mentoring opportunities. Their journeys can provide valuable insights and inspire you to overcome challenges.
Find out more
We have lots of other resources and advice for Indigenous students on our website here, as well as blogs about university courses, life, and more.