Anzac Portal: Australia's military history and veterans' stories

A heavily armed naval ship at sea with many people visible on the deck.

Sinking of HMAS Sydney in 1941

HMAS Sydney sank off Western Australia on 19 November 1941 after a battle with the German ship HSK Kormoran.

World War I 1914 to 1918

Soldiers standing near a gun with some loading and operating the gun.

World War II 1939 to 1945

Korean War 1950 to 1953

Photograph of 3RAR on the deck of a US troopship

Vietnam War 1962 to 1975

A male soldier standing in front of a tank.

Anzac Day Schools' Awards

DVA is proud to host this national competition to recognise the commemorative work of students and teachers in schools and other educational settings.

Enter today

School winners for 2026

Students connected with veterans and ADF personnel to showcase this year's Anzac Day Schools' Award theme, 'Women in service.'

Read about the winners

Veteran stories

Listen to oral histories

We gather stories of ordinary Australians who've had extraordinary experiences serving in wars, conflicts and peace operations.

Dixie Lee's story

Dixie served in HMAS Manoora and at HMAS Moreton. He talks about life at sea and becoming a Pacific coastwatcher in World War II

David Sabben's story

David served with 6RAR in Vietnam in 1966. He fought in the Battle of Long Tan. He talks about combat and being in command.

Bill Purdy's story

Bill joined the RAAF in World War II, serving in Bomber Command. He recalls the Allied Armada on D-Day and the awarding of his DFC.

Biography

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Formal portrait of an officer in uniform.

Keith Payne VC

Keith was decorated for 'exceptional personal bravery' after rescuing 40 men under heavy mortar fire in Vietnam in 1969.

Short film

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First on the Ground peacekeeping film

AN ABC-DVA documentary about Australian peacekeepers who have deployed every year since 1947, presented by Sir Peter Cosgrove.

Resources

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We've produced over 100 free resources on Australia's military and service history. Many are designed for teachers and students.

Enlistment: In Their Own Words

Royal Australian Air Force 1941-1945

Battles of the Kokoda Track Campaign infographic tile

Battles of the Kokoda Track Campaign infographic poster

Battles of the Kokoda Track Campaign hotspot activity