Learning about the commemoration of Australian military service

 

Commemoration is remembering and honouring the service of veterans and current members of the Australian Defence Force and its allies. It also recognises the sacrifices of their families and loved ones. Australians come together to commemorate those who have served our nation and its allies in wars, conflicts and peace operations. Our teaching resources explore the national days of commemoration, commemorative symbols and the significance of commemoration for Australians. Use our guides to plan a commemorative service and explore examples of commemorative activities in Australia and around the world.

Extension resources

The extension category includes useful resources containing detailed content that may require more advanced literacy skills. These resources could be used for independent research tasks and extension activities or be modified to meet your teaching needs.

Commemoration - our website section

Gallipoli and the Anzacs teaching resource

Forever yours book

Memories and Memorabilia book

We'll meet again workbook

About our resources

Our commemorative free educational resources for Australian schools include:

  • classroom activities and lessons
  • interactive online activities
  • printable worksheets to consolidate learning
  • source analysis for primary and secondary sources
  • short films and videos
  • workbooks and books.

Education specialists and qualified historians design our resources so they:

  • are historically accurate
  • build knowledge, understanding and skills
  • engage your students.

Primary and secondary resources have classroom-ready content. Adapt them to cover topics broadly or in detail.

Commemorative topics include:

  • commemorating Anzac Day and Remembrance Day in Australia and around the world, including Gallipoli and Villers-Bretonneux
  • commemorating key events, including Bombing of Darwin Day, Vietnam Veterans' Day, National Peacekeepers Day and significant anniversaries
  • the meaning and importance of commemoration
  • some of the symbols used during commemorative services
  • how to lead a commemorative event.

To bring history to life, we have included oral histories that capture veterans' and civilian stories and experiences.

Get in touch

To ask about our teaching resources or request a copy of any of our free printed books, contact us.


Last updated:

Cite this page

DVA (Department of Veterans' Affairs) ( ), Learning about the commemoration of Australian military service, DVA Anzac Portal, accessed 8 October 2025, https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/classroom/teaching/commemoration
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