Anzac Day 2025

As we come together to commemorate the 110th anniversary of the landing at Gallipoli, we honour those who have dedicated their lives to defending our nation and way of life, as well as the vital support from communities and families.

Attending Anzac Day Commemorative Services at Hellfire Pass in Thailand today, the Chief of the Defence Force, Admiral David Johnston AC RAN, reflected on the enduring Anzac spirit.

“On Anzac Day we reflect on the courage of those who have come before us, their proud and distinguished history, and our enduring commitment to carry that legacy forward.

“Here in Thailand, we remember those who fought in the Pacific theatre of the Second World War,” Admiral Johnston said. 

“We reflect on their service and sacrifice, their care and support for one another, and the hardships they bravely endured.

“Their enduring Anzac spirit remains strong with us, and we pay our respects to those who served – and the families and communities affected by war.

“Lest we forget.”

To pay respects to all Australian, New Zealand and allied personnel who serve, or have served, Australian Defence Force leaders will attend Anzac Day commemorative services in Australia, the region and across the globe.  

• The Chief of the Defence Force will attend ceremonies at Hellfire Pass in Thailand; 
• The Vice Chief of the Defence Force will attend the Dawn Service at the Australian War Memorial, Canberra, where the Deputy Chief of Navy will deliver the Commemorative address; 
• The Chief of Navy will attend ceremonies at Gallipoli, Türkiye; 
• The Chief of Army will attend ceremonies at Sandakan in Sarawak, Malaysia; 
• The Chief of Air Force will attend ceremonies in Villers-Bretonneux and Bullecourt, France; and
• The Chief of Joint Operations will attend ceremonies at Isurava and Bomana Memorial in Papua New Guinea. 

As at 22 April 2025, approximately 1000 Australian Defence Force members are currently deployed on operations across Australia, the Indo-Pacific region and the globe, continuing the Anzac spirit while serving Australia's national interests at home and overseas.

Media note
Anzac Day can be an emotional time for the Defence community, including serving personnel, veterans and their families. Media are asked to include the below information in their reports.

Support is always available through the following services:

• Defence All-hours Support Line (ASL) - 1800 628 036
• Defence Member and Family Helpline - 1800 624 608
• Defence Chaplaincy services (on-call 24/7) – 1300 333 362
• Defence Employee Assistance Program - 1300 687 327
• 1800 IMSICK – 1800 467 425
• ADF Mental Health Services accessed through Garrison Health centres
• Open Arms - 1800 011 046
• Sexual Misconduct Prevention and Response Office (SeMPRO) - 1800 SEMPRO (1800 736 776)
   

Media can access imagery/vision at: https://images.defence.gov.au/assets/S20250351