15/08/2026
“Fellow citizens, the war is over.”
Today, 81 years ago, victory was declared in the Pacific theatre of the Second World War.
This “glorious moment” as described by Australian prime minister Ben Chifley was one which carried great weight for Australia, and all who had experienced the devastating impact of the war.
Many Australians took to the streets to celebrate, while others in lands far from home, embraced the news and celebrated in their own way.
Australian forces were engaged in campaigns across the Pacific – in New Guinea, Bougainville, New Britain, Borneo, and in the Philippines – and Australian prisoners of the Japanese were spread throughout Asia. The end of the war marked the beginning of their journey home.
Today we pause to remember all who served our nation during the Second World War.
Lest we forget.