Millions mark Anzac Day with dawn services and marches across Australia

Friday, 25 April 2025 04:00

The nation is pausing on this solemn day in tribute to he men and women who have served in Australia's defence forces.

Australians have gathered to mark Anzac Day and pay tribute to the men and women who have served in the nation's defence forces.

The solemn day began with dawn services, held in small suburban parks, state capitals and the Australian War Memorial (AWM) in Canberra, commemorating the bravery and sacrifice of all who served in the armed forces.

Today marks 110 years since Australian and New Zealand soldiers landed on the shores of Gallipoli, in Turkey, during World War I for the start of the bloody Dardanelles campaign.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese gave the dedication with a short speech at the dawn service at the AWM in Canberra.

"At this hour upon the 25th of April in 1915 Anzac became one of the immortal names in history," the PM said.

"We who are gathered here, think of those who went out to the battlefields of all wars, but did not return.

"We feel them still near us in spirit. We wish to be worthy of their great sacrifice. Let us therefore once more dedicate ourselves to the ideals for which they died.

"As the dawn is even now about to pierce the night, so let their memory inspire us to work for the coming new life into the dark places of the world."

A damp start to the day in Sydney and Brisbane failed to deter thousands of people attending dawn services in their cities.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton was among those attending the Brisbane commemoration at the Shrine of Remembrance in Anzac Square.

But in Melbourne the solemn occasion was marred when agitators jeered and heckled the acknowledgement of country given at the start of the dawn service at the Shrine of Remembrance.

The group was escorted from the service by police and event officials.

Later in the morning, serving defence force members, their families and veterans took part in Anzac Day marches.

A flyover by Royal Australian Air Force jets marked the start of the march in Elizabeth Street, Sydney.

At Anzac Cove in Gallipoli, a dawn service will be held at the site of Australia's most famous action in World War I.

The rest of Anzac Day will be marked by more parades and wreath-laying events, followed by the usual long-weekend celebrations.

You can find out more about all the events in your state here.

At Anzac Cove in Gallipoli, a dawn service will be held at the site of Australia's most famous action in World War I.

The Villers-Bretonneux dawn service will take place from the Australian National Memorial in France.

WATCH LIVE: Anzac Day coverage from 9News

Millions of people will participate in the days' events, while the entire country enjoys the second long weekend in a row.

Pubs and RSL clubs around the nation will be packed to the rafters for a day out, and a chance to play some two-up.

The roads will be busy, some of the shops will be closed, and some states will have double demerit points in force for road offences.

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