Minister for Defence - Anzac Day

The Minister for Defence David Johnston this morning joined thousands of Western Australians for the Anzac Day dawn service at the State War Memorial in Kings Park.

Senator Johnston said it was now 99 years since Australian and New Zealand troops landed at Gallipoli and in August this year the nation will mark the entry of Australia into the First World War and the beginning of the commemoration of the Anzac Centenary.

"Since the first convoy of servicemen left the shores of Albany in 1914, almost two million men and women have worn the uniform of the Royal Australian Navy, the Australian Army and the Royal Australian Air Force with pride," Senator Johnston said.

"Today we remember around 100,000 men and women of the Australian Defence Force who have lost their lives while serving their country, we also remember their families and loved ones through the generations who have felt their loss most of all."

Senator Johnston also urged Australians on Anzac Day to remember the 2,000 Defence personnel who are currently serving overseas and doing an outstanding and professional job representing our nation in Afghanistan, the Middle East, South Sudan, Egypt, Israel/Lebanon, personnel serving in our northern waters on border protection duties, as well as those helping in the search for MH370.

"On this most auspicious and solemn day we remember the brave individuals who have served, and continue to serve, our great nation during times of war and peace."