Victorians are encouraged to observe a minute’s silence this Remembrance Day, to reflect on the service and sacrifice of all those Australians who have suffered and died in times of war.
Senator for Victoria Sarah Henderson said it was important to continue the tradition of pausing at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month to commemorate our fallen.
“For more than a century, Australians have stood together on Remembrance Day to honour those who have served or lost their lives in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations,” Senator Henderson said.
“It is one of the most important days of the year for not only our veterans, but for all Australians.
“Following the Second World War, what was originally Armistice Day, became known as Remembrance Day, where Australians could pause and remember those service personnel who have lost their lives during all conflicts.
“I am also delighted the Morrison Government has funded more than $800,000 for Saluting Their Service (STS) Program grants.
“Two local projects in Geelong and Bendigo have received funding through STS including:
- $6,700 for Bendigo Veterans Motorcycle Club Central Victoria Chapter to build a new memorial.
- $39,000 for Deakin University Geelong Campus to develop a short documentary on Australian Muslim service personnel in the second World War
“Our local communities recognise the importance of commemorating and honouring the contribution of our servicemen and women and all that they have done for our nation.
“This program helps to preserve Australia’s wartime heritage, providing valuable financial support, highlighting the dedication and sacrifice of our veterans.”
Since 1914, more than 102,000 Australian service personnel have lost their lives in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations, making the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.
On Remembrance Day it is a tradition to honour the fallen by wearing a red poppy, the flower that grew in the battlefields of France and Belgium during the First World War.
“Victoria a proud history of military service and I encourage all members of our community to buy and wear a poppy this Remembrance Day. Buying a poppy from your local RSL sub-branch supports their work to support our local veterans.
Australians are also able to access commemorative resources for Remembrance Day, including stories from those who served, from the Anzac Portal.
Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling provides 24/7 free confidential crisis support for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families on 1800 011 046 or openarms.gov.au. Safe Zone Support provides anonymous counselling on 1800 142 072. Defence All-Hours Support Line provides support for ADF personnel on 1800 628 036 or defence.gov.au/health/healthportal. Defence Member and Family Helpline provides support for Defence families on 1800 624 608.
10 November 2021