Family of Patricia Ann Miller AO, the highly respected Territorian better known affectionately as Aunty Pat, has accepted the offer of a State Funeral by Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro.
Aunty Pat was named NAIDOC Aboriginal of the Year and NT Australian of the Year, appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia, and served 19 years as Deputy to the Administrator of the Northern Territory.
Chief Minister said a state funeral is a fitting tribute to an extraordinary Territorian whose contribution to our community has been profound and enduring.
The family of Patricia Ann Miller AO, the highly respected Territorian better known affectionately as Aunty Pat, has accepted a State Funeral offered by Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro.
Born in Alice Springs, Aunty Pat was a proud Aboriginal woman who dedicated her life to serving the Northern Territory through leadership, advocacy and community service.
Her outstanding contribution was recognised through numerous honours, including being named NAIDOC Aboriginal of the Year and NT Australian of the Year, appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia, and serving for 19 years as Deputy to the Administrator of the Northern Territory.
The Chief Minister said Aunty Pat Miller devoted her life to the people of Central Australia and the Northern Territory.
"Holding a state funeral is a fitting tribute to an extraordinary Territorian whose contribution to our community has been profound and enduring. Pat was a trailblazer who spent decades fighting for Aboriginal Territorians, championing access to justice and making sure people who too often went unheard had a voice.
"Her greatest legacy is the difference she made to people's lives. Pat was a respected Arrernte Elder, a proud Territorian and a tireless advocate for her community.
"A state funeral is an opportunity for all Territorians to come together to honour Pat's remarkable life, acknowledge her service and recognise the lasting mark she has left on our Territory.
"On behalf of the Northern Territory Government, I extend my deepest condolences to Pat's family, friends and all those who loved and respected her. We have lost a remarkable woman, but her legacy will continue to inspire generations of Territorians."
A date and location for the State Funeral will be set in consultation with her family and details will be made public shortly.
