Commemoration · 11 November 2026
Remembrance Day
— 11 November
At the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, Australia pauses. A minute of silence. A poppy. A moment to remember every Australian who died in war.
Remembrance Day has been observed since 1919 — originally to mark the end of World War I, it now honours all Australians who have died in all conflicts, from the Boer War to Afghanistan.
The tradition of the 11th hour
The Armistice ending World War I came into effect at 11:00am on 11 November 1918. After four years and the deaths of more than 60,000 Australians — from a population of just five million — the guns fell silent on the Western Front.
Australia marked the first anniversary with two minutes of silence in 1919. Today, a single minute is observed nationally at 11:00am, with services at war memorials, schools, and workplaces across the country.
The red poppy — inspired by John McCrae's poem "In Flanders Fields" — has become the symbol of Remembrance Day worldwide. In Australia, paper poppies are often worn on the lapel or placed at memorial walls.
The Australian War Memorial in Canberra hosts the National Remembrance Day Ceremony each year, broadcast live. State memorial ceremonies are held simultaneously in every capital city.
How to observe Remembrance Day
Observe the silence
Stop what you're doing at 11:00am on 11 November and observe one minute of silence. Whether at home, work, or school — it takes only a moment to remember.
Attend a service
War memorials across Australia host services beginning before 11:00am. The national ceremony at the Australian War Memorial is broadcast on ABC.
Wear a poppy
Red poppies are available from RSL clubs and many retailers. Wearing one on 11 November is a visible gesture of remembrance and solidarity.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Remembrance Day on 11 November?+
The Armistice ending World War I came into effect at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. Australia has observed the day since 1919, originally called Armistice Day and renamed Remembrance Day in 1997 to honour all Australians who have died in war.
What happens at 11:00am?+
A one-minute silence is observed nationally at 11:00am on 11 November. Services are held at war memorials, schools, workplaces, and online. The Last Post is often sounded immediately before, followed by the Rouse after the silence.
What is a poppy and why do we wear one?+
The red poppy became a symbol of remembrance after the poem "In Flanders Fields" (1915), inspired by poppies growing over the graves of fallen soldiers in Belgium. In Australia, wearing a poppy on Remembrance Day honours those who gave their lives in all conflicts.
Is Remembrance Day a public holiday in Australia?+
No. Remembrance Day is not a public holiday in Australia, unlike in some other Commonwealth nations. Business and schools are encouraged to observe the minute of silence at 11:00am regardless.
How is Remembrance Day different from Anzac Day?+
Anzac Day (25 April) specifically commemorates the landing at Gallipoli in 1915 and the service of Anzac troops. Remembrance Day (11 November) marks the end of World War I and honours all Australians killed in war, including in conflicts since 1918.
Supporting veterans all year round
Remembrance Day is one day — but veterans' needs don't pause. Clear Path Veterans helps Australian veterans navigate DVA claims, compensation, and rehabilitation support throughout the year.
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