Honouring our merchant seamen and the Battle for Australia Day

Today we mark two significant commemorations from the First and Second World Wars and remember those who served.

Falling on the first Wednesday in September, Battle for Australia Day marks the defence of Australia following the Fall of Singapore in 1942.

This pivotal time united our nation, with the threat to the country from air attacks on Darwin, Townsville and Broome, and attacks on shipping off our east coast.

Victories in the Battle of the Coral Sea and land battles at Milne Bay and on the Kokoda Track were significant turning points in the defence of Australia and the Pacific War.

Today we remember all who served and died in the Battle for Australia, as well as civilians killed in raids on our territory.

Merchant Navy Day falls on the anniversary of the sinking of the first Allied merchant ship during the Second World War.

During the First and Second World Wars, Australian Merchant Navy personnel served with bravery and distinction, including crewing the merchant ships that supplied Australian and the Allied forces engaged in the Battle for Australia.

During the Battle for Australia at least 23 Australian and Allied merchant ships and a hospital ship were sunk in Australian waters, several with heavy loss of life.

Today we remember their service, as well as the at least 568 Australian Merchant Navy members killed while serving in the First and Second World Wars.

We remember your service, your resilience and your sacrifice.

Lest we forget.

Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling provides 24/7 free confidential crisis support for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families on 1800 011 046 or the Open Arms website. Safe Zone Support provides anonymous counselling on 1800 142 072. Defence All-Hours Support Line provides support for ADF personnel on 1800 628 036 or the Defence Health Portal. Defence Member and Family Helpline provides support for Defence families on 1800 624 608