The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs has announced the cancellation of all Australian-led overseas Anzac Day services amid the continuing COVID-19 health crisis.
The Minister, Darren Chester said Anzac Day was one of the most important days on the national calendar, but expert health advice that large public gatherings presented an unacceptable risk to the community could not be ignored.
“This decision has not been made lightly and has taken into consideration a number of key factors, primarily concerns about the welfare of Australians and other visitors travelling to Anzac Day services,” Mr Chester said.
Also taken into consideration were the views of host nations regarding visitors and large gatherings, the possible impact on the health systems of overseas nations, and the welfare of staff and contractors travelling overseas, Mr Chester said.
“Domestically, many of the services around the country have been cancelled and the Australian War Memorial is planning to broadcast the national Dawn Service to support individual reflection on this important day,” the Minister said.
“However, this service will not be open to the public,” he said.
“I understand the last time smaller or limited-capacity Anzac Day services were held was in 1942 due to the threat Australia faced during World War II.”
He said he had spoken with State and Territory veterans’ ministers, and many were exploring options to ensure all Australians had the opportunity to pay their respects and reflect on the service and sacrifice of veterans on Anzac Day.
“Governments are committed to working with the Returned and Services League and other veteran and community organisations on how we best commemorate Anzac Day this year,” Mr Chester said.
“The Government wanted to give Australians and other visitors as much notice about arrangements for this year’s services as possible and registered attendees will be contacted by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.”
