Joint media release - Commemorating the 83rd anniversary of the bombing of Darwin

Today we remember those who lost their lives in the 1942 Bombing of Darwin and honour the service men and women who leapt to action to defend Australia’s north.

On this day, 83 years ago, Darwin faced a devastating aerial assault by Japanese forces, the first foreign attack on home soil in the Second World War.

In two separate raids, some 240 Japanese aircraft targeted the town, killing more than 250 allied military personnel, merchant mariners and civilians in the process.

These initial attacks were the beginning of a concerted bombing campaign across northern Australia, with nearly 100 air raids hitting Darwin, Broome, Townsville, Katherine, and many more towns.

As we do every year, we pause to commemorate those who were impacted by the bombings in Darwin and across the north, their lives forever changed in the process, and we acknowledge the service and sacrifice of those who fought to protect Australia with unwavering determination.

Lest we forget.

NOTE FOR MEDIA: Read more about the attacks on Australia in 1942 on the Department of Veterans’ Affairs Anzac Portal.

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