Australia has played an active role in peace operations since the earliest days of international peacekeeping efforts. On 14 September 1947, Australians formed the very first group of United Nations (UN) peacekeepers to be deployed on a UN peace operation. Since that day, our nation has been steadfast in its commitment to peace.
On National Peacekeepers' Day, we mark the anniversary of that first deployment, honouring the proud legacy of all our peacekeepers, peacemakers, peacebuilders and peace enforcers.
In the almost 80 years since then, more than 65,000 Australians have served in peace operations, taking part in more than 60 peace operations across the globe. From the 1980s, Australia's role in peace missions expanded, and grew significantly with multiple concurrent missions in our own region and across the globe in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Our peacekeepers have comprised ADF members, Australian police and civilians.
Over the decades, the nature of peacekeeping has changed, becoming more complex and multi-layered. Today, it encompasses a broad range of roles, from protecting communities affected by conflict and delivering humanitarian aid to providing medical care and rebuilding infrastructure. It also involves supporting intelligence and communications, enabling democratic elections, disarming former combatants, and helping to maintain peace. Some modern missions can involve increased threat environments, leaving modern peacekeepers facing the possibility of armed conflict.
Since the 1990s, Australian servicewomen, female police officers and female civilians have taken on an increasingly important role in peacekeeping, supporting more diverse and inclusive missions tasked by the United Nations, defence forces and police.
All peacekeepers face challenges and potential dangers. Their willingness to accept the risk and determination to succeed in their mission is a testament to their professionalism and humanity.
Today, we reflect on the resilience, professionalism and humanity of all Australian peacekeepers. We remember their dedication, willingness to operate through challenging circumstances, and their kindness and compassion in the service of peace.
We honour the sacrifice of the 17 Australians who have died on peace operations, and those who came back forever changed by their experiences.
Lest we forget.