Prime Minister Anthony Albanese marked the 25th anniversary of Australia’s involvement in the Afghanistan conflict, paying tribute to troops at a Canberra ceremony attended by veterans, families, and dignitaries. Speaking at the Australian War Memorial, he framed their service as a defining struggle for national identity, underscoring the sacrifices made during the campaign. Among those present was the nation’s most decorated living soldier, whose presence added weight to the solemn reflections on the war’s legacy. The event highlighted both the bravery of those who served and the enduring impact of their contributions on the country.


Anthony Albanese speaks at Australian War Memorial event commemorating 25th anniversary of country’s involvement in the conflictGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastAnthony Albanese has honoured Australian troops who served in Afghanistan, using the 25th anniversary of the country’s involvement in the conflict to describe their heroism as a fight for “who we are as a people”.The prime minister joined hundreds of veterans, family members and dignitaries at a commemoration of the start of the campaign in Canberra on Sunday, with nation’s most decorated living soldier and accused war criminal Ben Roberts-Smith among the crowd at the Australian War Memorial. Continue reading...