22/08/2026
WARNING: Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people are advised this post contains images and names of deceased persons.
On 23 August 1966, Vincent Lingiari led 200 Gurindji, Ngarinman, Bilinara, Warlpiri, and Mudbara workers and their families off Wave Hill Station. What began as a strike against unfair wages and harsh conditions grew into a landmark 10-year battle for land rights and dignity.
This historic strike stands as one of the most powerful industrial actions in Australian history - a testament to what working people can achieve through collective solidarity.
For teachers, the Wave Hill Walk-Off offers a vital lesson in union strength, justice, and First Nations rights. Bring this pivotal moment into your classroom with learning resources from the National Museum of Australia below. 👇
On 23 August 1966, about 200 Gurindji stockmen, domestic workers and their families walked off Wave Hill station in the Northern Territory and refused to keep working for the station owners. The disagreement over wages and land ownership lasted nine years. In 1975 some of the Gurindji people’s hom...