This ANZAC Day, Australian Federal Police (AFP) members across the globe are pausing to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of those who have served Australia and New Zealand in times of war and peace, marking 110 years since the Gallipoli landings.
From the shores of the Pacific to the capitals of Europe and the Middle East, AFP officers are standing shoulder to shoulder with local communities and partner agencies, participating in Dawn Services and commemorative events to honour the ANZAC legacy.
In the Netherlands, the Maldives, Papua New Guinea, the United States, and many other locations, remembrance ceremonies are unfolding—each a solemn tribute to the men and women whose bravery shaped the region’s history.
The commemorations span far and wide, involving AFP personnel in 34 countries, with more than 180 officers joining local services and international counterparts.
AFP Deputy Commissioner Ian McCartney, currently performing the duties of Commissioner, said the day was an opportunity for deep reflection and unity. “The AFP stands in proud solidarity with our military personnel, recognising the invaluable contribution of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to keeping our people and our nation safe,” he said.
“No matter where our members are posted in the world, today we stand united to carry the legacy and sacrifice of the ANZACs in our memory.”
McCartney emphasised that ANZAC Day was not only a moment of remembrance, but also a time to acknowledge the AFP’s ongoing collaboration with the ADF. “We also recognise and honour those who serve in Australian and international peacekeeping efforts,” he said.
“The AFP’s commitment to honouring the ANZAC legacy extends beyond this day.”
From reciting poems in Malta and Serbia to laying wreaths in Jordan, Fiji, and Cambodia, AFP members are embracing the spirit of ANZAC across continents. At Gallipoli itself, a solemn Dawn Service will be followed by tributes at Lone Pine and Chanuk Bair.
In Kuala Lumpur, AFP members will join services at Tugu Negara before sharing a gunfire breakfast at the residence of the New Zealand High Commission. In Samoa, the Solomon Islands, Tonga, Nauru and Timor-Leste, AFP officers will lay wreaths and reflect with local communities. At Villers-Bretonneux in France, where Australian troops fought bravely in World War I, AFP members will participate in a televised memorial event.
Other commemorations include services in Singapore, the Philippines, Los Angeles, New York, Washington, Abu Dhabi, London and Port Moresby—each a testament to the enduring bond between Australia and New Zealand, and the sacrifices of those who served.
“Lest we forget,” said Deputy Commissioner McCartney, echoing the sentiment carried by every wreath laid, every silence observed, and every step taken this ANZAC Day by AFP members around the world.
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