Nationwide Commemorations Set for April 25
Australians will gather on Friday, April 25, to commemorate Anzac Day across cities and towns. The day marks the service and sacrifice of all Australians who have served in conflicts.
Traditional Ceremonies and Marches Planned
The national day of remembrance includes dawn services, wreath-laying ceremonies, and commemorative marches. Each capital city will host major events, while RSL clubs around the country will also hold local observances.
Sydney to Host Major Gatherings in the CBD and Coogee
Figure 1: Sailors from HMAS Waterhen march in the Anzac Day parade in Sydney
Veterans and the public will assemble at 4.20am at Martin Place for the Sydney dawn service. RSL NSW confirmed general viewing areas will remain open until full. Registration for accessible seating is available online.
The Anzac Day March will begin at 9am, travelling from Martin Place to Liverpool Street. A Commemoration Service will take place at 12.30pm at the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park. In addition, at least 12,000 people are expected to attend the Coogee dawn service at 5.30am. This event will be held at Goldstein Reserve.
Canberra to Reflect at the Australian War Memorial
Canberra’s official dawn service will occur at the Australian War Memorial. It starts at 5.30am following a pre-service reading at 4.30am. Representatives from the Australian Defence Force will read letters and diaries from Australians who experienced war. Deputy Chief of Navy, Rear Admiral Matt Buckley AM CSC RAN, will deliver the Commemorative Address.
Melbourne to Host Services at Shrine of Remembrance
Figure 3: Australian Defence force personnel in the Anzac Day march in Melbourne
Melbourne’s dawn service begins at 5.30am at the Shrine of Remembrance. Members of the public may enter the Sanctuary of the Shrine to lay poppies after the service. The Sanctuary opens at 7am.
The Anzac Day March in Melbourne will commence at 8.30am. The procession will move from Swanston Street along St Kilda Road towards the Shrine. More information is available on the RSL Victoria website.
Brisbane Events Begin at Anzac Square
Brisbane’s dawn service begins at 4.28am at the Shrine of Remembrance in Anzac Square. The city’s commemorative march will follow at 9.45am through the Brisbane CBD. Numerous smaller services will also take place throughout Queensland. The RSL Queensland website has detailed event listings.
Figure 4: ANZAC Day dawn service at the Shrine of Remembrance, in Melbourne
Adelaide’s Commemorations Include March and Memorial Services
Adelaide’s dawn service will be held at 6am at the South Australian National War Memorial. A commemorative march starts at 9.30am and will move along North Terrace, King William Road, and Sir Edwin Smith Avenue.
The march will conclude at the Cross of Sacrifice. A commemorative service will be held there at 11.40am. Participants and onlookers can pay respects and lay wreaths during the events.
Hobart to Gather at the Queen’s Domain Cenotaph
Hobart’s dawn service will begin at 6am at the Queen’s Domain Cenotaph. A commemorative march will commence at 11am, moving down Macquarie Street and Elizabeth Street. A second service will occur at 11.45am at the Cenotaph.
Also Read: Anzac Day in Victoria: What’s Open and When
Perth to Host Dawn Service at King’s Park
Western Australia’s principal Anzac Day service will be at King’s Park in Perth. The dawn service will start at 5.45am. Attendees will gather to honour Australian servicemen and women.
RSLs Encourage Local Participation Across the Nation
Returned and Services League (RSL) branches across Australia will also conduct ceremonies and community events. Each club will provide specific timings and venues. The RSL urges the public to check local listings for nearby services.
National Moment of Remembrance and Reflection
Anzac Day continues to unite Australians in remembrance. The events allow all citizens to acknowledge past and present service. Communities gather to lay wreaths, hear personal accounts, and observe traditions.
In 2024, over 1.5 million Australians attended Anzac Day events. Organisers expect similar turnout in 2025. Citizens are encouraged to arrive early due to high attendance.
Legacy of Anzac Spirit Remains Central to Observances
Commemorations on April 25 reflect on shared history and service. The Anzac legacy remains a significant part of the national identity. Dawn services and marches offer space for collective memory and honour.
