Today, the Torres Strait community will mark the 90th anniversary of the 1936 Maritime Strike on Thursday Island to honour the courage and unity of Torres Strait Islanders who stood together to demand fair treatment and the right to self-determination.
The Maritime Strike was a turning point. It led to the Torres Strait Islanders Act 1939, which recognised Torres Strait Islanders as a distinct First Nations group with the right to elect their own leaders.
From the annexation of the islands in the 1870s, through the 1936 strike, to the landmark Mabo decision in 1992, Torres Strait Islanders have continually fought for justice and recognition.
That legacy continues today as communities advocate for climate action and cultural preservation.
The Torres Strait is home to a unique culture, practices and landscapes. It is also home to the world’s most unique Treaty and continues to demonstrate the close connection between First Nations people and our Pacific family.
Torres Strait communities face unique challenges, from rising seas to economic opportunities. The Australian Government remains committed to working in partnership to safeguard their future.
We are steadfast in our mission to build a better, fairer, more united Australia.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister, Senator the Hon Nita Green:
“I am honoured to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the 1936 Maritime Strike.
“The Strike was remarkable, not only for its scale across the Islands themselves, but also for its discipline and unity.
"Torres Strait Islanders advocated for the right to choose how they spent their wages and to have control over their own affairs.”
Quotes attributable to Matt Smith MP, Member for Leichhardt:
"The 1936 Maritime Strike is a seminal moment in time for the people of the Torres Strait. It announced that they were a formidable power: organised and driven, not to be taken lightly.
“As the elected Member for Leichhardt, it's an honour to commemorate such a significant event with my friends and community members I have known and worked with for many years.
“The Maritime Strike still resonates with the people of the Torres Strait, and there is direct through-line from the Strike to the Masig Statement: The Voice from the Deep."