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Veterans' Affairs

MEDIA RELEASE - Overseas Anzac Day service numbers - Department of Veterans' Affairs

Department of Veterans' Affairs

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MEDIA RELEASE  

25 APRIL 2026

OVERSEAS ANZAC DAY SERVICE NUMBERS 

Today, Australians have come together both at home and around the world to commemorate Anzac Day and pay tribute to all those who have served our nation in times of war, conflict, and humanitarian and peacekeeping missions.  

View photos from the overseas services.  

More photos will be available soon on the Defence imagery website. 

Attendance at Anzac Day international commemorative services 

Dawn Service, Gallipoli, Türkiye 

1,791 

Lone Pine Service, Gallipoli, Türkiye 

1,120 

Dawn Service, Australian National Memorial, France 

2,525 

Dawn Service, Hellfire Pass, Thailand 

1,041 

Dawn Service, Sandakan, Malaysia 

330 

Bomana War Cemetery, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea 

4,879 

Isurava Memorial Service, Isurava, Papua New Guinea  

200 

Lae War Cemetery, Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea 

779 

Bitapaka War Cemetery, East New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea 

150 

 

Anzac Day commemorations have long held importance for Australians, since the first commemorative service held in 1916. The number of attendees highlights the continued dedication of Australians to honouring the sacrifices made by the Australian Defence Force personnel who have served and those who continue to serve.  

This year marks 111 years since the first ANZAC landing at Gallipoli and we recognise the enduring legacy of those have served and the families who support themAnzac Day serves as a reminder of the cost of war and the value of peace as we remember all those who lost their lives during or as a result of their service. 

Media note on Anzac Day reporting 

Anzac Day can be an emotional time for veterans and families, and for those currently serving in the Australian Defence Force.

As you cover stories and run programs about Australia's military history and its effect on Australians who have served in the Australian Defence Force (ADF), the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) requests you include contact details for specialised counselling services and resources for veterans where appropriate.

Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling Service provides free and confidential counselling and support for current and former ADF members and their families. They can be reached 24/7 on 1800 011 046 or visit the Open Arms website for more information. 

For more information on the meaning of Anzac Day and its history, visit the Department of Veterans' Affairs Anzac Portal.  

ENDS 

Contact: DVA Media [email protected]  or 02 6289 6466