Australia rises to remember our fallen Anzacs

Hundreds of thousands of people have filled Anzac centenary dawn services throughout Australia to remember our fallen soldiers.

More than 30,000 people packed Martin Place in Sydney while a record crowd of up 120, 000 turned out for the Anzac centenary dawn service outside the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.

Crowds also gathered at services in Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Darwin and throughout the rest of the country.

An estimated 20,000 people also turned out in Wellington, New Zealand to mark the 100th anniversary.

NSW Premier Mike Baird, NSW Governor David Hurley and other dignitaries, including federal Social Services Minister Scott Morrison paid their respects at the Martin Place service.

Tens of thousands of people filled Martin Place in Sydney for the dawn service which started at 4.30am. Photo: AAP

The governor said the Anzac spirit had three elements: it is defined by Australians who give a job their best shot, do it proudly and look after their mates, even when the job is done.

"When we do the job we will do it in a manner in which you will be proud," he said.

The Anzac memorial service in Brisbane. Photo: AAP

"Now, the challenge is to continue the spirit and legacy with a renewed vigour."

Hymns filled the air before Mr Baird read the Dedication.

"We feel them still near us in spirit," he said.

Wreaths laid at Martin Place in Sydney to remember our fallen Anzacs. Photo: 7News

The premier laid a wreath and bowed his head at the cenotaph to begin the floral tributes from politicians, servicemen and women, NSW Police and more.

As the last post was sounded, a sea of solemn men, women and children bowed their heads and took a minute of silence to pay their respects.

"Lest we forget," said those gathered.

Brett Smith, 49, brought his partner and children to "remember the past and think of the future", including his uncle who fought in World War One.

"I hope (my son) never has to do what my uncle did," he said.

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The faces of our fallen Anzacs were reflected on buildings in Martin Place in Sydney. Photo: 7News

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Hymns filled the air before Mr Baird read the Dedication.

"We feel them still near us in spirit," he said.

The premier laid a wreath and bowed his head at the cenotaph to begin the floral tributes from politicians, servicemen and women, NSW Police and more.

As the last post was sounded, a sea of solemn men, women and children bowed their heads and took a minute of silence to pay their respects.

"Lest we forget," said those gathered.