Australians across the country paused to remember those who sacrificed their lives in service, gathering at memorials nationwide for Remembrance Day events.

Marking 106 years since the signing of the armistice that ended World War I, Australians observed a minute of silence at 11 a.m. to commemorate the moment in 1918 when the guns fell silent and peace returned to Europe after years of devastating conflict.

The Australian War Memorial in Canberra was the focal point of this year’s ceremonies that was attended by dignitaries including Governor-General Samantha Mostyn, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Defence Force Chief Admiral David Johnston, and Memorial Chairman Kim Beazley.

“Our Remembrance Days are not only for honouring those who have served before us but also for layering our gratitude upon the many acts of remembrance that have come before,” Mostyn stated.

“These are not just acts of commemoration, but of care, kindness and respect.”

She added that as each of us contributes our own experience to the act of commemoration, the ritual becomes enriched over time.

“Today, Australians gather to remember the legacy and sacrifice of past generations, and to honour the men and women of today’s Australian Defence Force who continue to serve with courage, commitment, and a dedication to peace.”

After her address, Mostyn was the first to lay a wreath at the Stone of Remembrance, followed by Albanese and other officials.

The prime minister also took the opportunity to honour those who answered the call to serve through the decades.

“We remember every name. Every face. Every future lost and every future changed forever. And we think of the many who were cast into the ranks of the unknown soldier as they were torn from life.”

He thanked all serving members of the Australian Defence Force and all the veterans.

“Just as they stepped up for us, we must step up for them,” he said.

Albanese went on to mention the significant role Australia has played on the world stage. “We have seen what horrors Australians have defeated. We have seen the difference Australians have made in the world.”

“During that minute of silence, let our hearts fill with their names, their faces, their voices. Think of all they were, and all they could have been,” he said.

Nationwide Observances from Melbourne to Sydney

Thousands gathered at Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance, where the service opened with a traditional smoking ceremony under clear skies.

The Royal Australian Air Force Band played as crowds came together to honour the sacrifices made by Australians in uniform.

This year also marks the 90th anniversary of the shrine’s opening in 1934, a historic event that drew nearly a third of Melbourne’s population to its grounds.

The Shrine of Remembrance has stood as a beacon of commemoration for generations of Victorians, fostering a community bound by memory and gratitude.

Meanwhile, in Sydney, a small dawn service took place on the edge of Sydney Harbour, where images of red poppies illuminated the sails of the Opera House.

New South Wales RSL President Mick Bainbridge encouraged all Australians to reflect on the service and sacrifices of defence force members, whether at home or overseas.

“For me, having lost mates overseas and more mates to suicide coming home, it is a time for quiet reflection and gratitude to them and their families, and to support each other within our network.”

Honouring Private Richard Norden

During the ceremony in Canberra, Albanese and Governor-General Mostyn announced a posthumous Victoria Cross for Private Richard Norden, a Vietnam War hero whose bravery had long awaited formal recognition.

Norden’s award follows a concerted campaign by veterans to acknowledge his actions during the Battle of Fire Support Base Coral in 1968, where he showed “extraordinary courage” under heavy fire to rescue the wounded and recover fallen comrades.

Describing Norden’s bravery, Albanese detailed how the young private’s courage forced enemy soldiers to retreat, saving countless lives.

“The courage shown by this young private from Gundagai allowed many Australians to come home,” he said.

Norden, who later served with the Australian Capital Territory police, was killed in 1972, and is now remembered among Australia’s distinguished military heroes.