Remembrance Day marks the anniversary of the Armistice which ended the First World War (1914–18). Each year on November 11, Australians observe one minute’s silence at 11am, in memory of those who died or suffered in all wars and armed conflicts and appreciation of their sacrifice.
World War One - The City of Parramatta Research and Collection Services, along with a team of dedicated volunteers, compiled the biographies of 1,962 soldiers, seamen and nurses from the Parramatta District – the culmination of a four-year project. These stories of dedication, courage and loss are featured in articles listed on this page. For the publications, please click on publications.
World War Two - Prime Minister Robert Gordon Menzies announced the beginning of Australia's involvement in the Second World War on the 3 September 1939. The announcement aired on every national and commercial radio station in Australia. Over the course of almost six years, Australian men and women served and fought on many fronts. This included; Europe, the Mediterranean and North Africa, against the German and Italian armies. Closer to home the Australian army fought the Japanese in Southeast Asia and the Pacific. World War Two was the first time the Australian mainland came under direct attack, with the Japanese aerial bombing locations in north-west Australia and submarines entering Sydney Harbour.
Victory in the Pacific Day (VP Day) is celebrated 15 August. This day is also known as Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day). This date commemorates Japan's acceptance of the Allied demand for unconditional surrender 14 August 1945. For Australians, it meant that the Second World War was finally over. In August 1945, Australian governments gazetted a public holiday as VP Day and most newspapers reported it as such. However, the governments of Britain, the United States and New Zealand preferred VJ Day.
Read our publication: Victory in the Pacific 75th Anniversary
Victory in the Pacific - 75th Anniversary