First Australians...

In the Transformations Conference of 2005 in Canberra, SBS Managing Director – Nigel Milan said that SBS's biggest documentary series to date would soon go into production. Called First Australians, it would explore – over eight one-hour episodes – the history of indigenous Australia. Milan stated that we need to rectify the neglect of the past. We need to learn our history to be proud of our history. He said that it seems there is a desire to forget rather than a hunger to remember and that Australian multiculturalism didn’t begin after the Second World War. It began with the first fleet in 1788. Milan went on to say how vital it is that we, as a people, understand our origins and the circumstances of our history. And so, First Australians was created. An epic documentary spanning the full history of the western settling of this nation and the story of Indigenous Australia told from their perspective... the First Australians.

This landmark production is a great resource for those of indigenous background or those studying indigenous studies at TAFE. It is essential viewing for all Australians. On the official website, you can discover the story, search for people, places and events, upload your own story, create and share a video playlist and discuss the series. You can even watch previous episodes and search your family history.

New episodes are featured on SBS every Sunday and Tuesday evening at 8:30pm. If you've already seen an episode or have been following the story, post your thoughts here on the comments link.

Image courtesy of SBS