Memories of a struggle

Australians against apartheid

In 1994 when Nelson Mandela became the first democratically elected President of South Africa, he embodied not only the hopes of his long-suffering people but also the spirit of thousands of antiapartheid supporters the world over who worked tirelessly to deliver freedom to South Africa. Among them were many Australians. From as early as 1960, trade unions, the Government, churches and individuals gave their support to the fight for justice in South Africa. In 1996 Nelson Mandela wrote,

“During those bleak decades on Robben Island and later in Pollsmoor Prison, my companions and I would occasionally glean news of anti-apartheid activities being carried out overseas. Such news brought us comfort and hope.

Australians were notable for their participation in the anti-apartheid movement. They gained a reputation in the 1960s and 1970s for their demonstrations against visiting sporting teams and individual players, for the moral and financial aid…