75th anniversary of National Service 1951-72
National Commemorative Service
In 2026, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) marked the 75th anniversary of National Service. The anniversary refers to 2 conscription schemes for the armed forces that operated during the Cold War.
Both schemes saw young men conscripted into Australia’s armed forces for full-time and part-time service. Those who served in the national service schemes are often known as ‘Nashos’.
On 14 February 2026, a national commemorative service was held at the Great Hall, Australian Parliament House in Canberra.
The anniversary provided the opportunity to honour and remember national servicemen and the sacrifice of their families. More than 280,000 young men were called up for national service between 1951 and 1972 with the last Nashos discharged in 1974.
Tragically more than 200 died on active service overseas and others died while serving in Australia. Although many young men were proud to serve their country in uniform, national service came at a personal cost for all Nashos and their families, irrespective of the nature and location of their service.
Back to topOrder of Service
Download the Order of Service
Back to topBroadcast of the service
The service was broadcast nationally by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) and streamed online providing the community an opportunity to acknowledge the anniversary from their home.
The National Commemorative Service is available on ABC iview for a limited time.
You can also watch the National Commemorative Service on our DVAAUS YouTube channel.
- Watch the Preservice Program
- Watch the National Commemorative Service
Photographs
You can view and download photographs of the event from:
- DVA Flickr album, 75th National Service Commemorative Event
Open Arms
Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling provides free mental health and wellbeing support to anyone who has served at least one day of continuous fulltime service in the ADF and their immediate families. Available at any time of the day or night, every day of the year.
To find out more call Open Arms on 1800 011 046.
Back to topResources
DVA continues to develop a range of commemorative and educational materials to further help, recognise and remember those who served in national service.
Visit the Anzac Portal to learn more about national service in Australia.
Back to topContact information
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
Phone: 1800 838 372 within Australia
Tel: +61 2 6289 1133 from outside Australia
Email: Commemorative.Events@dva.gov.au