Army appoints new Indigenous Elder

Army has appointed Edwin James Mi Mi (Uncle Jim) as its third Indigenous Elder, strengthening Army’s connection with First Nations communities across Australia.

A Wakka Wakka man from Gayndah, Queensland, Uncle Jim brings more than 35 years of experience across military service, Indigenous engagement, workforce development and cultural leadership to the honorary appointment.

Announced by CA Lt-Gen Susan Coyle on August 31, the Army Indigenous Elder supports the Chief of Army, provides cultural guidance, represents Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander personnel, and supports relationships between Army and First Nations communities across Australia.

After completing Year 12, Uncle Jim enlisted in the Australian Regular Army on September 3, 1985.

He served for 24 years in the Royal Australian Infantry Corps, progressing from Private to Warrant Officer Class Two and deploying to Somalia, East Timor and Iraq.

Lt-Gen Susan Coyle said Uncle Jim’s appointment reflected Army’s commitment to valuing Indigenous knowledge, service and leadership.

“The service of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples has helped shape the Australian Army for generations,” Lt-Gen Coyle said.

“Uncle Jim brings a lifetime of service, leadership and cultural authority to this role. 

“His experience in uniform and deep connections within community will help strengthen Army’s relationship with First Nations peoples across the country.”

During his military career, Uncle Jim played a key role in developing and nationally implementing the Indigenous Employment Development Course, improving education, training and employment outcomes for Indigenous youth.

The program received national recognition with an Employment Program Award in 2009.

Following his Army service, Uncle Jim continued to champion opportunities for First Nations peoples through senior Indigenous engagement, workforce development, cultural heritage and community relations roles.

He has worked across the security, resources, infrastructure and employment sectors to strengthen Indigenous participation, support traditional owner engagement, develop cultural capability and create meaningful employment pathways.

Uncle Jim said the appointment was a privilege and an opportunity to give back to Army.

“I am committed to providing cultural guidance to the Chief of Army and leadership teams across the Army, while supporting the continued growth of understanding, respect and meaningful engagement between the Army and First Nations communities,” he said.

Uncle Jim succeeds Aunty Lorraine Hatton.