Margaret Williams-Weir facts for kids

Margaret Williams-Weir (born around 1940 – died October 1, 2015) was an amazing Australian teacher, researcher, and a naval officer. She made history as the first Aboriginal person to start university in Australia, and also the first to graduate from an Australian university. She shared this special achievement with Geoffrey Penny.

Margaret was a proud descendant of the Gumbaynggirr and Malera people, who are part of the Bundjalung people from northern New South Wales.

Her Amazing Education Journey

Margaret Williams-Weir finished high school at Casino High School in 1956. She received a scholarship of 50 pounds from the Aboriginal Welfare Board to help her studies.

Starting University

In 1957, Margaret was offered a scholarship by the University of Queensland. She started studying for a Bachelor of Arts degree there. After one semester, she moved to the University of Melbourne with an Abschol Award. In 1959, she earned a Diploma of Physical Education. This made her the very first Indigenous Australian to get a university qualification. From 1958 to 1959, she also received a scholarship to live at the University Women's College while she studied.

Becoming a Doctor

Margaret continued her studies and achieved even more. She completed a Bachelor of Education degree. Later, she earned an advanced Master's degree with Honours. In 2001, she completed her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at the University of New England. Her PhD research looked at how Indigenous students experienced learning and research at university.

Serving Her Country

From 1966 to 1969, Margaret Williams-Weir was a member of the Royal Canadian Navy. She served as an officer during these years.