In 1918, after four years of catastrophic world war, an armistice took effect.

The guns ceased. The fighting ended. The slaughter stopped.

From that exact moment when silence gripped the battlefield came a sacred tradition of people falling silent too.

In the 11th month. On the 11th day. At the 11th hour.

A profound national pause. A simple act of remembrance.

Today, in time-honoured tradition – in silence, stillness, and solemn reflection – Australians will remember our fallen.

We will honour all Australians who have served, suffered, and sacrificed in wars and military operations for our nation.

Many of us will remember and honour family members who served.

Our silent remembrance at the 11th hour is incredibly meaningful.

Our remembrance causes us to reflect in gratitude.

Australia wouldn’t be the country it is today but for all those Australians who, across our history, risked all to fight evil, to defend our home, and to preserve our freedoms.

Our remembrance reminds us of our responsibility.

The deeds of those who served – and the inheritance they’ve provided – inspire us to do what we must to protect our way of life.

In commemorating our fallen, we recall the best qualities that define us as Australians and the standards we strive towards:

To serve, not to take.

To stand together, not divided.

To remain courageous when times are tough, not despairing.

Who we were – and what we did – reminds us of who we are – and what we can do.

And after a most meaningful minute, …

… after our silent remembrance at the 11th hour, …

… with three words, …

… we sustain the soul of our nation, …

… we strengthen our national spirit.

“Lest we forget”.

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