Anzac Day Luncheon at the United Services Club

Thank you, Major General Low Choy. Service men and women, veterans; distinguished guests.

I begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to any First Nations people here this morning.

I am pleased to join you today for this much‑cherished tradition at the United Service Club—one of Queensland’s great institutions, and one with deep and enduring ties to our Defence community.

Occasions such as this, alongside the many ceremonial and civic observances held in recent days, mark the significance of Anzac Day and give us the opportunity to honour all those Australians who have served—and who continue to serve—our nation.

Anzac Day remains one of the most sacred moments on our national calendar. Long after Gallipoli, it continues to call us together to honour the service, sacrifice and devotion to duty of Australian Defence Force personnel—not only from that first campaign and the World Wars that followed, but in every conflict, peacekeeping mission, humanitarian effort and emergency response since.

This year, that reflection carries added resonance as we acknowledge the 125th anniversary of both the Australian Army and the Royal Australian Navy, and the 105th anniversary of the Royal Australian Air Force.  

Together, these milestones tell a powerful story of service and professionalism that spans generations—and of Queensland’s central role in Australia’s Defence history for more than 150 years.

I commend the men and women of the ADF for the constant work of safeguarding our nation—through preparedness, capability and service at home and abroad.  

Thank you for your service; for the courage, resilience and sacrifice shown in protecting our shores and our way of life.

I also extend my thanks to your families, and to all those who provide such essential support to our service men and women, our veterans and war widows.

Indeed, I thank all who work to uphold the legacy of the Anzacs—a legacy worthy of preservation and never to be taken for granted.

Lest we forget.