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
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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