An Australian Army sergeant of Tongan heritage has made history as the first Pacific Islander to receive the prestigious Federation Star, recognising more than four decades of service to the nation.

Sosefo Puliuvea, who joined the Australian Defence Force (ADF) as a reservist on 5 April 1983, has been awarded the honour after more than 40 years of continuous service.

He is also the longest continuously serving senior non-commissioned officer at the rank of sergeant in the Australian Army.

The Federation Star is awarded to ADF personnel who have demonstrated exceptional dedication through four decades of service, marking one of the military’s most significant long-service recognitions.

Speaking about the milestone, Sgt Puliuvea said the award carried deep personal and community significance.

“It means a lot for me… Australia has given us — my family, and a lot of the wider South Pacific people — lots of opportunity,” he told ABC Pacific.

“It meant a lot for me to give something back to the Australian people.”

His achievement is being celebrated not only within his family and defence circles but also across Pacific communities, highlighting the longstanding contribution of Pacific Islanders to Australia’s armed forces.

Sgt Puliuvea’s recognition marks a historic moment for diversity within the ADF, underscoring both his individual commitment and the growing representation of Pacific communities in Australia’s military ranks. Government and industry would be essential in navigating the challenges ahead.

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