Victorian Aboriginal Remembrance Service

This annual service pays tribute to the vital contributions Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service personnel have made—and continue to make—to the Australian Defence Force.

For over a century, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have served in conflict and peacekeeping missions involving Australia. Yet, for many years, their service and sacrifice were not formally recognised or commemorated.

In 2006, the late Aunty Dot Peters AM, alongside Retired Flight Sergeant Sam Halim, then-President of the Healesville RSL, led the first dedicated remembrance service to honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service-people.

Learn more about the history of this Service

Today, remembrance services are held across Australia, reflecting a growing national recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander military contributions. Held during Reconciliation Week, Victoria’s annual service provides an opportunity for all Victorians to come together, pay their respects, and acknowledge the enduring legacy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Defence personnel.

Register to attend

Accessibility Support for the Victorian Aboriginal Remembrance Service

Travellers Aid will be providing assistance to veterans and their families attending the Victorian Aboriginal Remembrance Service on Saturday 31 May. Support will be available from 10:00am to 1:00pm (one hour before and after the service).

Assistance will be provided from Tram Stop 19 (Shrine of Remembrance, St Kilda Road) to the service location at the Shrine’s Second World War Memorial Forecourt. Following the service, support will also be available to return to Tram Stop 19 or to nearby parking and bus locations on Birdwood Avenue, including transport via a power-assisted wheelchair.

For any enquiries about Travellers Aid services on the day, please contact Travellers Aid directly on 0498 023 959.

Watch the live stream

The Victorian Government collaborates with the Victorian Aboriginal Remembrance Committee to deliver this important service.