A bronze statue of influential Aboriginal leader Lowitja O'Donoghue was unveiled Wednesday in Elder Park, Adelaide [1].

The monument recognizes O'Donoghue's lifelong contributions to Aboriginal rights and community leadership, marking a formal state effort to immortalize Indigenous figures in public spaces [1], [2].

O'Donoghue served as the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commissioner, where she became a central figure in the fight for Indigenous recognition and justice [1], [3]. The new artwork is designed to symbolize her steely resolve throughout her career as an advocate [3].

This installation is the first of six monuments planned by the South Australian government [1]. The broader initiative aims to honor prominent Indigenous South Australians through permanent public art [1], [2].

The unveiling took place on June 3, 2026 [1], [2]. By placing the statue in Elder Park, the government has positioned the tribute in a high-visibility area of the city to ensure O'Donoghue's legacy remains accessible to the public [1].

“The statue is the first of six planned monuments to prominent Indigenous South Australians”

The commitment to install six monuments indicates a systemic shift by the South Australian government to integrate Indigenous history into the state's physical landscape. By starting with Lowitja O'Donoghue, the government is prioritizing a legacy of political advocacy and institutional leadership, signaling a move toward official state recognition of Indigenous civil rights milestones.