Anzac Day

Anzac Day is observed on 25 April across Australia as a national day of remembrance for all personnel who have served and died in military operations. It honours the courage, sacrifice, and camaraderie of veterans and active service members across all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping missions.

The date marks the anniversary of the first major military action undertaken by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War: the landing at the Gallipoli Peninsula in Türkiye on 25 April 1915. Intended to capture Constantinople (now Istanbul) and force the Ottoman Empire out of the war, the Allied campaign stalled into an eight-month stalemate that resulted in heavy casualties on both sides.

Although the campaign did not achieve its military goal, the bravery and spirit shown by Australian and New Zealand soldiers forged the enduring 'Anzac legend'. Over time, Anzac Day broadened beyond Gallipoli to commemorate all Australians who have served and sacrificed in subsequent military conflicts and international peacekeeping duties.

Commemorations begin before dawn with solemn Dawn Services held at war memorials, cenotaphs, and community halls nationwide, reflecting the morning light of the original Gallipoli landing. Following these services, communities gather for veterans' marches, gunfire breakfasts featuring rum-laced tea or coffee, and civic ceremonies involving wreath-laying and the sounding of 'The Last Post'. Anzac Day is also famous for two-up, a traditional coin-tossing gambling game legalised in pubs and clubs across Australia specifically for the day, alongside baking and sharing oat-based Anzac biscuits.