2026 ANZAC Day Dawn Service
Victorians showed their respect for veterans past and present with more than 50,0000 attending this morning’s ANZAC Day Dawn Service at the Shrine of Remembrance.
The playing of the Last Post punctuated the solemn and moving service.
Across the state, hundreds of thousands more Victorians paid their respects at more than 140 community services held by RSL Sub-Branches.
RSL Victoria State President Dr Mark Schröffel said:“This morning was another powerful event that gave Victoria the chance to honour our veterans past and present and reflect on the great sacrifices of service.
“On behalf of the veteran community, I’d like to thank Victorians for paying their respects and supporting veterans and families through the ANZAC Appeal today.”
On the disruption during the Welcome to Country Dr Schröffel said:
“The Welcome to Country, introduced by a First Nations veteran and ANZAC Day March Ambassador, Ricky Morris, was an appropriate way to recognise First Nations traditions and service ahead of the official proceedings. Those that did the wrong thing showed they are weak-minded individuals who do not belong at this service. We understand the disruptors left before the end of the service, showing complete disrespect to veterans.
“They were overwhelmed by the vast majority of the attendees who applauded and supported proceedings.”
Shrine of Remembrance interim CEO, Sue Blake said: “Each year, the quiet strength of the Dawn Service reminds us that remembrance is not just tradition – it is something our community actively chooses to uphold.”
The ANZAC Day March starts at 9:00am, and a further update will be provided after commencement with updated crowd figures.
Watch the 2026 ANZAC Day Commemoration March
You can watch a replay of the march online on RSL Victoria’s Facebook or YouTube.
