Statement from the Secretary of the Department for Veterans' Affairs, Liz Cosson AM CSC Ref: ANZAC DAY 2021

Subject: ANZAC Day 2021 [SEC=OFFICIAL]

Dear Ex Service Organisation Round Table Members,

I’m writing to you today following the announcement by the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel that Australian-led overseas Anzac Day commemorative services will not proceed in 2021.

I know through my engagement with the Minister that this decision was not made lightly, but with the Coronavirus pandemic continuing particularly overseas, the Government was clear the health and safety of all Australians remains the number one priority.

As the Minister said, Anzac Day is Australia’s most sacred day of commemoration in our calendar, and it is important that we appropriately recognise and commemorate our fallen, our service personnel, our veterans and their families.

The Government has announced there will be a COVID-safe national service in Canberra, to be held at the Australian War Memorial and broadcast nationally on the ABC.

I know many of you are already speaking with your respective State and Territory governments regarding local services and we want to support your organisations by helping to raise awareness of the commemorative services run across the country.

In regards to this decision by Government today, I ask that you encourage your members, and anyone from the broader Australian community, to tune in to the national service and ensure that they continue to mark the day in line with the latest health advice in their area.

As Anzac Day approaches, I will provide you with further advice on Australian Government led initiatives to support Anzac Day including communication products that you can promote to your members.

As always, thank you for your ongoing support in ensuring Anzac Day is remembered each year, despite the challenges Coronavirus continues to present.

Regards,

Liz

Liz Cosson AM CSC

Secretary

Department of Veterans’ Affairs

T: 02 6289 6735 Ext: 616735

E: Liz.Cosson@dva.gov.au | E: Secretary@dva.gov.au