Jim Joseph’s Service Medals

These medals belonged to Jim Joseph, a Wadjari man from Mullewa who served his country in uniform, even when that country refused to recognise his full citizenship.

Like thousands of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women, Jim volunteered to serve in the Australian armed forces during wartime. But when the war ended, white soldiers returned to land grants, pensions and recognition. Jim, like most Indigenous veterans, was sent back to his community with no compensation and no support.

It took over 40 years before many of these soldiers received the benefits they were owed. Jim’s story lives on through the voices of his grandson Jamie Joseph, Amangu Yamaji Elder Graham Taylor, and researchers working to ensure these legacies are honoured.