Please note: This article contains the name and image of an Aboriginal person who has passed away, used with the permission of their family. 

Few people have contributed more to advancing opportunities for Aboriginal Australians than Aunty Pat Miller AO, who passed away last week after a lifetime of leadership, advocacy and service that transformed countless lives.

A trailblazing leader, Aunty Pat spent decades tackling inequality, breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities.

Through her role as a Senior Elder on Campus in Mparntwe/Alice Springs with Poche SA + NT, Aunty Pat generously shared her cultural knowledge and wisdom, supported Flinders students and staff, and fostered meaningful relationships with communities across SA and the NT.

Her guidance helped inform Flinders’ strategic and reconciliation initiatives, strengthening the University’s commitment to cultural respect, community partnerships and responsibility to Country.

As Chief Executive Officer of the Central Australian Aboriginal Legal Aid Service and the first Indigenous deputy to the administrator of the Northern Territory, Aunty Pat championed the rights, wellbeing and aspirations of Aboriginal people.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Colin Stirling said he was always struck by Aunty Pat’s “wisdom, energy and wicked sense of humour”.

“Even in the most serious discussions, she had a gift for bringing people together and reminding us of what truly mattered,” Professor Stirling said.

“She gave so much of herself to others, and her contribution to Flinders, particularly through the relationships she built with students and staff, will be deeply missed.”

Senior Elder on Campus Uncle Richie said he was constantly in awe of Aunty Pat’s generosity and willingness to share what she knew with others.

“To me, Aunty Pat embodied everything an Elder should be,” he said.

“She had a charisma and presence that inspired instant trust and there was an incredible depth of knowledge about her, coupled with such kindness in the way she shared it.”

In recognition of her remarkable service, Aunty Pat received many honours, including being appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia and being named NAIDOC Aboriginal of the Year and Northern Territory Australian of the Year.

In 2013, she was awarded an honorary doctorate from Flinders University.

Aunty Pat’s legacy will be honoured with an NT state funeral.

Vale Aunty Pat Miller AO.