Australians gather around the world to commemorate Anzac Day

Thousands have gathered in Australia and around the world to commemorate Anzac Day and pay tribute to those who have served this nation in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.

This year marked the return of international public commemorations for the first time since 2019, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and travel restrictions.

Anzac Day services have been held in Australia since 1916, with the day formally gazetted as a day of commemoration in every state and territory during the 1920s.

Anzac Day pilgrimages to places of significance to Australians who have served is also a long-held tradition, with services held on Anzac Cove, Gallipoli, as early as 1923.

Estimated attendance at Anzac Day domestic and overseas commemorative services

Australian War Memorial Anzac Day Dawn Service, ACT, Australia 18,200 people
Anzac Day Dawn Service, Gallipoli, Turkey 563 people
Lone Pine Service, Gallipoli, Turkey 187 people
Anzac Day Dawn Service, Villers-Bretonneux, France 665 people
Anzac Day Service, Hellfire Pass, Thailand 450 people
Anzac Day Service, Sandakan, Malaysia

85 people
*Unfortunately the Service was not open for public attendance this year in accordance with local COVID restrictions
Anzac Day Service, Port Moresby (Bomana War Cemetery), Papua New Guinea

2,000 people

Media note on Anzac Day reporting

Anzac Day can be an emotional time for veterans and families, and for those currently serving in the Australian Defence Force.

As you cover stories and run programs about Australia's military history and its effect on Australians who have served in the Australian Defence Force (ADF), the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) requests you include contact details for specialised counselling services and resources for veterans where appropriate.

  • Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling Service provides free and confidential counselling and support for current and former ADF members and their families. They can be reached 24/7 on 1800 011 046 or visit the Open Arms website (www.openarms.gov.au) for more information.

For more information on the meaning of Anzac Day and its history, visit the Department of Veterans' Affairs Anzac Portal. 

ENDS
Contact: DVA Media 02 6289 6466 

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