This year marks 25 years since the first Australian Defence Force (ADF) operation in Afghanistan.
More than 35,000 ADF personnel served in Afghanistan and the wider Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO) in relation to Afghanistan between 2001 and 2021. Australians from government and non-government organisations worked alongside ADF and coalition forces, and Afghan nationals. As the 25th anniversary approaches, Australians are invited to reflect on their service and contribution.
On Sunday 11 October 2026, the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) will deliver a national commemorative service at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra to honour those who served in Afghanistan and the wider MEAO in relation to Afghanistan, the families who supported them, and the coalition partners they served alongside. The service will also be broadcast live on the ABC.
Australians are also invited to offer a tribute to DVA's Wall of Remembrance. The virtual Wall is a community-led online tribute where veterans, families and community members can share reflections, memories and messages honouring those who served.
As Australia marks this milestone anniversary, contributions to the Wall help preserve the stories and experiences connected to Australian service including those in Afghanistan and ensure they continue to be remembered.
Attendance at the commemorative service is free. For registration, event information, accessibility arrangements and transport details, visit 25th anniversary of Australian service in Afghanistan 2001-2021 | Department of Veterans' Affairs
Australian soldiers crew a Surveillance Reconnaissance Vehicle (SRV) during a joint Australian and Afghan patrol.
Image courtesy of the Australian Department of Defence.