The ADF recognises and respects the proud heritage of its Indigenous members and supports a variety of cultural events. These include smoking ceremonies incorporated into Anzac Day services, the conduct of Welcome to Country at important Army events, and Acknowledgement of Country plaques at Army barracks. In 2015 a group of Indigenous Army members conducted a unique ceremony at Lone Pine Turkey and the Australian War Memorial to ‘honour warrior spirits’ – paying respects to those who lost their lives in the First World War.

Formed in 1943, the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion helped protect Australia's northern coastline from Japanese attack. Around 700 men used local knowledge to make a vital contribution to defensive operations, while some employed their culinary experience with the local marine life to help sustain thousands of troops in the area.

Oodgeroo Noonuccal, formerly known as Kath Walker, served in the Australian Women's Service during the Second World War and later participated in the Army's rehabilitation scheme by training in secretarial work and bookkeeping. She went on to become one of Australia's most respected and admired poets, educators and political activists.