Stephen Conroy (Victoria, Australian Labor Party, Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

I rise to speak on the ministerial statement on the Centenary of Anzac and to reiterate the sentiments of the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition and, hopefully, the Minister for Veterans' Affairs, when he is able to get back from the War Memorial.

The Centenary of the Anzac landings on Gallipoli have given all Australians the opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices that our service men and women have made for our country. While the centenary recognises time passed since that conflict, the commemoration of Anzac has a much broader meaning. It is important that we as Australians remember that Anzac Day is a commemoration and a time of reflection. It is a time not only to reflect on the actions of the Anzacs 100 years ago but also to recognise the sacrifices and commitment of our men and women who are currently serving overseas far from home and their families. While the Anzac legend is firmly rooted in the shores of Gallipoli, the values that the Anzacs represent have been practised by Australian service men and women ever since.

Anzac Day is our opportunity to recognise and thank all of those who have given themselves to protect our country. Many of my colleagues have spoken about the Anzac Centenary in past weeks. I share their admiration for those who have served, but I take this opportunity to make particular mention of the men and women who are currently serving overseas and the families who support them. There are approximately 2,750 Australians serving in 14 different operations globally. They are working in places like Iraq, Sudan and across the Middle East as well as closer to home. These people exemplify the best qualities of our military and community. They operate under challenging circumstances with dignity, compassion and professionalism. As they uphold the honourable values that we associate with the Anzac spirit, their families at home bear the heavy burden of an absent loved one. Service to our country puts immense distance between parents and children, husbands and wives, and brothers and sisters. We as a community have an obligation to those service families. While our loved ones are representing our country far from home, we must ensure that these families are appropriately supported. Provision of housing, health care, education and other essential services helps ease the burden of having a loved one away while on service related duties. Furthermore, this support must extend to our veterans once their service is complete. The spirit of Anzac demands that we stand by our people. Their service has earned are respect and our gratitude.

On behalf of this side of the chamber I sincerely thank all of the courageous people who have served our country throughout its history. The Anzac commemoration has been an opportunity for all Australians to thank you for your service. I congratulate the minister for overseeing an excellent program and an excellent centenary. It is a credit to him.