ANZAC DAY VILLERS-BRETONNEUX, FRANCE

When it comes to sensitive matters like this which are at the heart of our entire nation, it is vital that the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) conducts full consultations with ex-service organisations and the general public before they make any changes. That’s what the public expect, it’s what the Prime Minister and the government expect.

The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs has instructed DVA to conduct a Dawn Service at the Australian National Memorial near Villers-Bretonneux, France on Anzac Day 2019.

The decision to revert to the Dawn Service follows feedback from ex-service organisations and the general public in Australia. 

There will be comprehensive consultation with local authorities and tour operators in France, as well as with the ex-service community in Australia, before any further changes are considered.