Today marks 96 years since the end of the First World War, a bloody and brutal war that cost over 16 million lives, including the lives of over 59,000 Australian servicemen.
Every year on 11 November, Australians stop to remember the sacrifice of the Australian servicemen and women who gave their lives in the service of their country.
We also take the time to thank past and present members of our Defence Forces for their service and their continued vigilance.
Australians, like citizens of other Commonwealth countries, wear a red poppy today to commemorate the sacrifice made by Australian servicemen and women during wartime. The red poppy bloomed across some of the most horrific battlefields in France during the First World War and their rich red colour is symbolic of the blood spilt during the horrors of war.
I pay tribute to the Australians who have died across all conflicts and I give thanks to the many Australian servicemen and women who have served or are currently serving in the Australian Defence Forces.
We shall remember them and honour their sacrifice.
Lest we forget.
