Login
Login
View all results

Suggested searches

  • Media release

Vale Joyce Clague MBE

Creative Australia acknowledges the passing of Yaegl Elder Joyce Clague, an advocate and trailblazer for First Nations and women’s rights.

Oct 01, 2024

Creative Australia acknowledges the passing of Yaegl Elder Joyce Clague, an advocate and trailblazer for First Nations and women’s rights.  

Born in Maclean, New South Wales, she grew up on an Aboriginal mission, and rose to become an influential campaigner for the rights of Indigenous Australians. 

Joyce’s work to tackle racism had both national and international reach, including travels through Africa, Europe and the United States. In 1966, she became the first Indigenous person to represent Australia at a UNESCO Conference.  

A key figure in the landmark 1967 referendum to include Indigenous people in the Constitution, Joyce’s impact resonated across borders. In 1977, she was named a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), recognising her work in advancing civil rights and equality. 

In 1996, alongside Aunty Della Walker, she initiated the landmark Yaegl native title claim, which ultimately led to the 2017 recognition of native title over 90 kilometres of coast and sea, the first of its kind in New South Wales. 

Creative Australia Executive Director First Nations Arts and Culture Franchesca Cubillo said:  

“Joyce Clague’s legacy is one of tireless advocacy, dignity, and immense courage. Her work changed the landscape of civil rights and the preservation of First Nations culture. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to her family, friends and community.” 

Vale 
Joyce Clague MBE  
1938–2024 

Logo Creative Australia

We acknowledge the many Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and honour their Elders past and present.

We respect their deep enduring connection to their lands, waterways and surrounding clan groups since time immemorial. We cherish the richness of First Nations Peoples’ artistic and cultural expressions.

We are privileged to gather on this Country and through this website to share knowledge, culture and art now, and with future generations.

First Nations Peoples should be aware that this website may contain images or names of people who have died.
Image alt text

We acknowledge the many Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and honour their Elders past and present.

We respect their deep enduring connection to their lands, waterways, and surrounding clan groups since time immemorial. We cherish the richness of First Nations peoples’ artistic and cultural expressions. We are privileged to gather on this Country and to share knowledge, culture and art, now and with future generations.

 Art by Jordan Lovegrove