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25 April 2026
For more than a century, Anzac Day has seen our nation come together to honour those who have dedicated their lives to defending our country.
Marking the day that Australian troops landed at Gallipoli, 25 April sees Australians around the world pause to honour and commemorate those who serve today, have served in the past, and those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom, as well as the families who have supported them.
The Chief of the Defence Force, Admiral David Johnston AC RAN, attended ceremonies in Gallipoli, Türkiye today.
He said that at a time when the world once again faces uncertainty, the lessons of the past can help guide the future.
“When the Anzacs landed at Gallipoli, Australia had only been a federated nation for 14 years, and was entering its first major conflict,” Admiral Johnston said.
“Their experiences forged many of the attributes – courage, endurance, mateship, sacrifice and service – that are the foundation of our modern national identity.
“Today, the men and women of the Australian Defence Force continue to serve and protect our nation both at home and abroad.
“Behind each of these roles is an individual – someone’s child, partner, parent or friend – who accepts the demands and risks of service in the knowledge that it may come at great personal cost.
“As the stewards of the profession of arms and Australia’s military legacy, our people understand that cost deeply. Those who have lost friends and peers during service are particularly aware of it.
“In an era of increasing uncertainty and conflict, Anzac Day’s reminder of the Australian attributes of courage, endurance, mateship, sacrifice and service is just as relevant today as it has ever been.”
To pay respects to all Australian, New Zealand and allied personnel who serve, or have served, Australian Defence Force leaders will attend Anzac Day commemorative services in Australia, the region and across the globe.
As at 21 April 2026, approximately 1,250 Australian Defence Force personnel are deployed on operations across Australia, the Indo-Pacific and the globe, continuing the Anzac spirit while serving Australia's national interests at home and overseas.
Media note
Anzac Day can be an emotional time for the Defence community, including serving personnel, veterans and their families. Media are asked to include the below information in their reports.
Support is always available through the following services:
Media can access imagery/vision of Anzac Day commemorations and messages from deployed personnel at https://images.defence.gov.au/S20260586