On 25 April 1915, Australian and New Zealand soldiers huddled together silently in their row boats as they approached the beaches and hills of Gallipoli. Although they were young and afraid, they prepared to battle with an unseen enemy to protect the rest of us.
Their courage and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
111 years later, the Anzac spirit is as strong as ever.
Tomorrow at dawn, Australians and New Zealanders across the world will pause to honour those who have served and continue to serve in our defence forces during times of war, conflict, and humanitarian and peace operations.
We honour the memory of the 103,000 Australians who have given their life in our country’s name.
As of 21 April 2026, approximately 1250 Australian Defence Force personnel are currently deployed on operations across Australia, the Indo-Pacific region and the globe. These deployments are an example of the continuing Anzac spirit while serving Australia’s national interests.
As Australians attend dawn services and take part in marches, we reflect on the tremendous sacrifices our current and former serving personnel and their families have and continue to make, so that our nation and its people can enjoy freedom and safety today.
In Papua New Guinea, the Anzac legacy was profoundly reshaped during World War II, and this has been foundational in the shared history of PNG and Australia as close neighbours and regional partners.
We acknowledge with sincere appreciation the Papua New Guinean men and women who supported Australian forces, often at great personal risk. Equally, we recognise and honour the bravery of those who took up arms to defend their country.
The Australian High Commission in Papua New Guinea will mark the day at 10 dawn services across the nation, including at the Bomana War Cemetery in Port Moresby and Lae War Cemetery in Morobe Province.
At the Bomana War Cemetery in Port Moresby, before dawn breaks over this place of rest on 25 April, we are reminded of the deep sacrifices made on this land and of a shared past that continues to bind PNG and Australia in remembrance.
Lest we forget.
ENDS
Australian Defence Force Major General Matt Burr, Commander 2nd (Australian) Division, and Brigadier General Gilbert Toropo, former Chief of PNGDF.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100