On Wednesday 11 November at 11 am, we invite you to pause for a minute of silence in honour of those who have served and died in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

Why 11 November?

At 11 am on 11 November 1918, a ceasefire began and the fighting of the First World War came to an end. This ceasefire is called the Armistice.

The day was first known as Armistice Day. After the Second World War, it was renamed Remembrance Day so it could honour people who died in all wars and conflicts, not only the First World War.

Who do we remember?

Each year on this date, we take a moment to remember everyone who has served Australia, and the sacrifices they made. More than 102,000 Australians have died in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

This includes:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander servicemen and women, including many who served before they had the same rights as other Australians
• Women who served as nurses and in other roles
• People who came to Australia from many countries and cultures
• Families who waited at home

Pause for a minute’s silence

Wherever you are, in class, at work, on placement or at home, join us for a minute’s silence at 11 am (local time) to remember and reflect together.

The idea of a shared silence began in 1919. In 1997, the Governor-General asked all Australians to pause for one minute on 11 November each year. At many ceremonies, a bugler plays the Last Post, then everyone stands in silence.

Lest we forget.

Attend a service in Adelaide

If you’re in the city, you’re welcome to attend the public service. All are welcome.

• Where: SA National War Memorial, corner of North Terrace and Kintore Avenue, Adelaide
• When: Wednesday 11 November, 10:45 am (the minute’s silence is at 11 am)

For the latest details, visit the RSL SA Remembrance Day page.

Many people, many connections

Everyone has a different connection to this day. Some of us have family who served in Australia’s forces. Others have family who served in the forces of other countries. Some of us have lived through war or left a country because of it.

Remembrance Day can bring up strong feelings, and there is no right way to feel. You can stand quietly, bow your head, pray, think of someone you love, or simply stop for a moment. It’s your choice how you take part.

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Need support?

Remembrance Day can be hard, especially for people affected by war. If you’d like to talk to someone:

• Student Success & Wellbeing
• Open Arms (support for veterans and their families): 1800 011 046
• Lifeline (24 hours): 13 11 14

Learn more

Explore the Australian War Memorial’s Remembrance Day resources.