ANTHONY ALBANESE: Anzac legacy proves peace is always worth fighting for

On Anzac Day, we pause to acknowledge the debt all of us owe to Australians who have gone to war in our name.

Across our continent, from the biggest cities to the smallest country town, and in every corner of the world made hallow by the sacrifice of our fallen, we gather in respect, reflection, gratitude and pride.

One hundred and eleven years after the first Gallipoli landing, Anzac Day has come to stand for every generation of Australians who have served.

At dawn services and marches today, we renew our solemn promise to remember all those young Australians who did not grow old and everyone they left behind.

We remember all who lived to keep fighting and all who finally made it home, but with the battle raging forever in their hearts.

We reflect on all they went through and all they were up against, and we give thanks for the difference they made just when the world needed it most.

We give thanks to our veterans for all you have given.

We thank all Australians serving now, and we thank your families, who take on both the pride and the burden.

Time and time again, Australians at war have embodied the courage, selflessness and mateship that define our national character.

What their legacy proves to us is that even when peace seems elusive, it is always worth fighting for.

So we gather. And as we give thanks for the light of every bright dawn that was their promise to us, we keep tending the flame of memory.

Lest we forget.