Australian War Memorial event will honour service

A national service in Canberra on 11 October 2026 will honour Australians who served in Afghanistan. That date marks 25 years since the first Australian troops landed in the country on 11 October 2001.

Officials will hold the commemoration at the Australian War Memorial. Australian Defence Force personnel, veterans, families and members of the public can attend and pay their respects.

Matt Keogh announced the event in an announcement on 13 July 2026. He is the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel.

Australian forces deployed to Afghanistan under Operation Slipper. They contributed to the International Security Assistance Force, a multinational mission to combat terrorism and help stabilise and reconstruct the country.

35,000 served, 47 died

Over the next two decades, more than 35,000 Australians served in Afghanistan or in support from the Middle East Area of Operations. The conflict became Australia’s longest-running war.

At the Australian War Memorial, the Roll of Honour records 47 Australian Defence Force personnel who died as a result of their service in Afghanistan. Another 263 Australians were wounded.

According to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, the 25th anniversary service will let Australians express respect and gratitude to those who served. It also recognises the families affected by the conflict.

Registration for the national commemorative service is free. Event information includes how to register, plus accessibility and transport options.

Meanwhile, ABC iview will broadcast the service live on 11 October 2026 for people who cannot attend in person.

Further background on Australian service in Afghanistan from 2001 to 2021 is available through the Anzac Portal. The Department of Veterans’ Affairs has also published details for the 25th anniversary of Australian Service in Afghanistan 2001-2021.