For 90 years, the Shrine of Remembrance has been a guardian of Victoria’s history and a place for generations to come together in remembrance and reflection for those who have served in war and peacekeeping efforts throughout our history. Officially opened on 11 November 1934, the Shrine of Remembrance is a beloved icon of state, national and cultural significance, originally crowdfunded by the community in the wake of the First World War. Since its creation, it has become a beloved and iconic place for the community to come together, remember, pay respects and reflect. This year the Shrine invites the community to look back on the past 90 years, the origins of the Shrine and the people that built it, and to imagine what the future of commemoration may look like for generations to come. The Shrine’s CEO, Dean Lee, says: “As we mark the Shrine’s 90th anniversary, we are reminded that the values of courage, sacrifice, and service are as relevant now as they were nearly a century ago. In a time when global events call for reflection on peace, security, and shared humanity, the Shrine’s role in fostering remembrance has never been more vital. “This Remembrance Day, we honour not only the legacy of those who served, but also the enduring spirit that brings people together to reflect on what truly matters—our freedoms and the sacrifices made to protect them.” An ’11 Days of Remembrance’ program leading up to Remembrance Day offers public talks, music performances, activations and anniversary events from 1 November, culminating in a very special Remembrance Day Service on Monday, 11 November.
- 1-10 November: The Shrine and other iconic Melbourne landmarks will light up ‘Red to Remember’.
- 1 November: ABC Big Ideas special event hosted by Natasha Mitchell with a range of young people on ‘the future of commemoration’ – Do younger generations find meaning in traditional services? Could new ways of honouring our past emerge? What might Anzac Day and Remembrance Day look like in 2050 and beyond?
- 1 November: The Ribbon of Reflection; a colourful walkway artistically representing the medals awarded to those who have served, will be unveiled along the lower forecourt of the Shrine.
- 6 November: Designing Remembrance panel discussion about the 1920s competition to design the Shrine, hosted by Peter Maddison from Grand Designs Australia.
- 7 November: Master Plan community engagement session invites public comment on the Shrine’s draft master plan 2025-45.
- 10 November: Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Chorus and Royal Australian Navy Band present an extraordinary afternoon of music, reenacting the same performance given at the Shrine’s 1934 Dedication, alongside other moving commemorative pieces.
- 10 November: A special Last Post Service, immediately following the concert, will pay tribute to the countless Australians who have served and sacrificed for our nation. Descendants of the Shrine’s original architects will lay wreaths in honour of their forebears’ vision and the lasting legacy of their design.
On Monday 11 November, the will take place, inviting all to pause to remember and reflect on those who have served and those who have died in all wars and peacekeeping operations. Ceremonial elements include the observing of one minute’s silence, bugle calls, recitation of the Ode and addresses from the Governor of Victoria, Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, and Brett West, a Yamatji man and veteran. The service will also include a flyover by the RAAF 100 Squadron and music by the Australian Children’s Choir and the RAAF Band. Pigeons will be released from the Balcony at the conclusion of the Service, as they were at the original Dedication. The Shrine’s architecture has always played a pivotal role on Remembrance Day. At exactly 11am, the Ray of Light illuminates the word ‘Love’ on the Stone of Remembrance in the Sanctuary, symbolising the exact moment the Armistice was signed to end the First World War. The general public can view this again at midday. This November, all Victorians are encouraged to continue the unbroken tradition of a minute’s silence to commemorate the service and sacrifice of Australians. Take a minute to pause, reflect and remember on Monday 11 November. State Remembrance Day Service Monday 11 November, 10:30-11.30am Second World War Memorial Forecourt, Shrine of Remembrance All are welcome. Bookings are not required. Limited seating available. Free public transport for veterans, war widows and current defence members. Ribbon of Reflection From 1 November and throughout summer A colourful walkway artistically representing the medals awarded to those who have served. As visitors walk along this pathway, they will be invited to reflect on the stories of bravery, sacrifice and service represented by the vibrant colours of Australian military medal ribbons
