ANZAC Day: 25 April
ANZAC Day services were held throughout the 1920s and, in 1927, ANZAC Day was designated a public holiday in all Australian states. After the Second World War, ANZAC Day evolved into a day to commemorate the sacrifice of Australians during all wars. ANZAC Day’s evolution continues and it is now a day to remember Australians and allied nations’ veterans who have served in all conflicts and peacekeeping missions.
A variety of activities are held on ANZAC Day - including dawn services, marches, reunions and lunches - as Australians reflect on the Spirit of ANZAC and the effects of war.
A series of events are held throughout Victoria to commemorate ANZAC Day, including the Dawn Service at the Shrine of Remembrance, Melbourne; local commemorative services and the ANZAC Day march through Melbourne.
Gallipoli landing
The ANZAC forces landed at Gallipoli hoping to capture the Gallipoli peninsula as it would provide the allied navies with access to the Black Sea. It was initially thought that the attack would result in a swift victory. However, upon landing, the ANZAC forces were met by fierce resistance and heavy casualties were suffered. The battle continued for eight months, with almost 11 500 ANZAC soldiers being killed before the ANZACs withdrew in December 1915.
News of the landing at Gallipoli quickly reached Australia and the campaign was portrayed as a defining moment in the history of the young Australian nation. ANZAC Day was first commemorated on 25 April 1916 through activities including: commemorative ceremonies in Australia; a sports day in the Australian camp in Egypt; and a march involving more than 2000 Australian and New Zealand troops in London.
ANZAC Day free travel
Veterans enjoy free travel on the Victorian public transport network on April 24, 25 and 26. To qualify for free travel on Metcard or V/Line ticketed services, veterans simply need to wear their RSL badge, uniform or present their DVA Gold or White card. This Victorian Government initiative helps veterans to meet fellow diggers during the ANZAC Day period. Find out more about the free services available.
Spirit of ANZAC Schools Prize
The annual Victorian Spirit of ANZAC prize is a competition run by the State Government for secondary students to submit entries ranging from poems to essays that capture the spirit of ANZAC. Nine student winners travel each year on a special annual overseas trip to sites of significance involving Australian troops.
Web Site Updates
DPCD's websites are progressively being updated to reflect the changes following the establishment of the
department. This means you will continue to see some references to the Department for Victorian Communities
(DVC) as changes are being made.
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