Australians pause for a minute's silence to mark Remembrance Day
Australians have paused for a minute's silence this Remembrance Day to reflect on the service and sacrifice of more than one million who served their country.
Saturday marks 99 years since the signing of the Armistice with Germany that brought an end to World War I on November 11, 1918.
Veterans' Affairs Minister Dan Tehan says he hopes the nation honours the bravery and sacrifice of Australia's servicemen and women past and present, especially the 102,000 who lost their lives during wars, conflicts and peacekeeping missions.
"I encourage everyone to observe one minute's silence today and to wear a red poppy to honour the memory of their service," he said.
To mark this year's 99th anniversary of the Armistice signing, Finance Minister Mathias Cormann delivered a commemorative address at the Australian War Memorial.
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His speech was followed by one minute's silence and a laying of floral tributes at the memorial's Hall of Memory.
"It's a really important day for Australia because it marks the 60,000 men and women who sacrificed their lives during this tragic war," AWM spokesman Chris Wagner said.
"It's also important that people remember that the minute's silence at 11am is not just about being silent, it's also about stopping and reflecting on the service of those who have served our nation - not only in WWI, but in wars after that and who continue to serve."
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull joined New Zealand counterpart Jacinda Ardern in Vietnam to commemorate the day.
The leaders attended a modest service in Da Nang on Saturday on the sidelines of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit.
Air force crews, diplomats and officials travelling with the official delegations also attended the service.
