Anzac Day 2026 dawn service times and locations across Australia

On April 25, 2026, Australians and New Zealanders will once more gather before sunrise to honour the 111th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings. From city cenotaphs to war memorials, Dawn Services will be held across every capital city, bringing communities together in the early hours for the Last Post, the Ode of Remembrance, and a shared minute of silence.

Below you can find where and when you can attend or watch the official Anzac Day Dawn Services in each capital city.

Sydney

Sydney’s Dawn Service will be held at the Cenotaph in Martin Place. The service begins at 4.20am, marking the time the first Australian troops landed at Anzac Cove in 1915. Public viewing areas will be available around Martin Place, though attendees should expect security checks, with entry via Pitt Street closed.

Canberra

At the Australian War Memorial, pre-dawn readings from soldiers’ letters and diaries begin at 4.30am. The Dawn Service itself runs from 5.30am to 6am on the Parade Ground. No tickets are required, and the service will be broadcast live on ABC TV and ABC iview.

Melbourne

Melburnians will gather at the Shrine of Remembrance, where the Dawn Service begins at 5.30am and concludes around 6.30am. Following the service, the public is invited into the Sanctuary to lay a poppy. The event will be broadcast live on ABC TV and streamed via RSL Victoria’s Facebook page.

Brisbane

Brisbane’s Dawn Service will be held at Anzac Square in the city centre, starting at 4.28am. Organisers are urging attendees to arrive by 3.30am due to large crowds. Road closures begin from 3am, and no parking will be available near the square.

Adelaide

South Australia’s service takes place at the South Australian National War Memorial on North Terrace, beginning at 6am. The service follows the Anzac Eve Youth Vigil, a unique local tradition in which young people maintain an overnight guard of honour.

Perth

Western Australia’s main service is held at the State War Memorial in Kings Park, running from 5.45am to 7am. The ceremony will also be shown on large LED screens across the precinct. Public transport is strongly recommended, as road closures will be in place and no public parking will be available in Kings Park.

Darwin

In Darwin, crowds will gather at the Cenotaph in Bicentennial Park from 5.30am. Veterans will march from the Darwin RSL at 5.45am, with the Dawn Service commencing at 6am.

Hobart

Hobart’s Dawn Service will be held at the Hobart Cenotaph in Queens Domain at 6am. Overlooking the Derwent River, the location is known for its calm and reflective atmosphere. The day continues with the main Anzac Day parade along Macquarie Street from around 11am.