Invitation to Attend the 75th National Service Anniversary at Parliament House
On 14 February 2026, Australians will come together to mark a significant milestone in our nation’s history—75 years since the introduction of the 1951 National Service scheme. This year’s National Servicemen’s Day will be commemorated with a National Commemorative Service in Canberra, honouring the men who served under compulsory national service, known affectionately as our “Nashos.”
The service will be held in the Great Hall at Australian Parliament House, beginning at 10:30 am. It will be a moment of reflection, gratitude, and collective remembrance.
Between 1951 and 1972, more than 280,000 Australians were conscripted into the armed services through various National Service schemes. These programs emerged during a time of global uncertainty, shaped by the aftermath of the Second World War and growing regional and international tensions. For most of those who served, national service was not a choice but was a duty required of young men by their country.
Tragically, around 250 Australians lost their lives during this period of national service. Behind each number is a story of youth, courage, disruption, sacrifice, and, for many families, lifelong loss.
The National Commemorative Service is an opportunity for all Australians—not only veterans and their families—to acknowledge what these men gave in service to the nation. Whether they served at home or abroad, in peace or conflict, every Nasho answered a call that shaped the course of their lives.
We owe them a debt of gratitude that can never truly be repaid but only honoured, remembered, and carried forward.
Anyone wishing to attend the service in Canberra is encouraged to register for free through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs website. For those unable to be there in person, the service will be broadcast nationally on the ABC and available to stream on ABC iView.
Australians can also take part by sharing a personal message, memory, or reflection on the DVA’s Wall of Remembrance—ensuring that the voices and stories of our Nashos continue to be heard.
This National Servicemen’s Day, take a moment to remember the young men who served because they were asked to—and who did so with courage, resilience, and a deep sense of duty.
Honour the National Servicemen's Association (Nashos) with beautiful items.
