Anzac Day is observed on the 25th of April each year and is the national day of commemoration of Australia and New Zealand for victims of war.
It marks the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War and recognises the role of our armed forces during wartime.
Anzac stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, and the day is acknowledged across Australia and New Zealand.
How Did ANZAC Day Begin?
The first Anzac Day march was held in Brisbane on the 25th of April 1916 to mark the first anniversary of the landing of the Australian and New Zealand troops on the Gallipoli Peninsula, Turkey.
Great Britain declared war against Germany for invading Belgium in 1914. As Dominions within the British Empire, Australia and New Zealand regarded themselves as also at war and sent troops into Europe accordingly.
Anzac Day commemorates the landing of Australian and New Zealand troops at Gallipoli, Turkey, on the 25th of April, 1915.
Approximately 70,000 soldiers landed at Gallipoli with the intent to drive through to Istanbul, take Turkey out of the war and provide supplies to Russia to fight against Germany. More than 20,000 of these soldiers were from Australia and New Zealand.
Unfortunately, their initial bold plan failed, and the troops ended up defending the land they had captured for further eight months before finally withdrawing at the end of 1915. According to the Australian embassy, it’s estimated that 8,700 Australians and 2,700 New Zealanders were killed.
Following the one-year parade to acknowledge the anniversary of the landing, the 25th of April was officially named ‘Anzac Day’ by the Acting Australian Prime Minister, George Pearce.
You will often still hear some refer to the ‘Anzac tradition’, meaning the ideals of courage, endurance and mateship – ideals still relevant today.
Why not check out these archive photos from the National Archives of Australia showing the first parade in Brisbane in 1916?
Why Do We Observe a Minute of Silence On Anzac Day?
Observing a moment of silence has always been a sign of respect, a time to reflect, and a shared pause to express our gratitude for those who have given their lives for their country and community.
According to the Australian Army, the idea for observing two minutes of silence originates from Melbourne journalist and First World War veteran Edward George Honey, who was living in London in 1919 at the time.
Honey wrote to the London Evening News, appealing for five minutes of silence to honour those who had sacrificed during the war.
Acknowledging Anzac Day in Our Communities
You can support Anzac Day by attending a commemorative service. These will be held across Australia and New Zealand and are a chance to pay our respects and reflect on essential aspects of our shared histories.
Many services will take place at dawn – the original time of the landing in Gallipoli – but there will be further marches, gatherings and opportunities to show your support throughout the day.
To find your nearest events and services, visit the Department of Veteran’s Affairs webpage for a complete list of what’s happening, where and when.
Where to Find Out More
Plenty of resources are available online to help you explore the history of war in Australia and the contributions of our Defence forces globally.
A few places to help you get started include:
You can also learn more about the Australian Defence Force via our dedicated Industry Profile and Employer Profile right here at Explore Careers.
