Share your Afghanistan story ahead of the 25th anniversary commemorations
On 11 October 2026, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) will hold a national commemorative service at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra to mark the 25th anniversary of Australia’s commitment to Afghanistan.
11 October 2026 marks 25 years since the official start date of Operation Slipper, where Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel served in, or supported, operations in Afghanistan.
The anniversary provides an opportunity for veterans, families of veterans and the broader Australian community to acknowledge Australia’s service in Afghanistan and reflect on the experiences of those who served.
Veterans and family members who wish to attend the national commemorative service can find more information and register their interest via the DVA website: www.dva.gov.au/Afghanistan-anniversary
Your Story. Your Legacy.
In preparation for this commemoration, DVA is looking to share the stories and experiences of veterans of the Afghanistan War and help appropriately acknowledge their service.
DVA is currently seeking to highlight the lived experiences of veterans and the diverse paths they have taken since transitioning from the ADF. Many Afghanistan veterans have continued to make significant contributions to Australian society as teachers, business owners, tradespeople, public servants, community leaders and professionals across a wide range of fields.
By sharing your story, you can help the Australian community better understand both the experience of service in Afghanistan and the positive impact veterans continue to make in their communities today.
Stories may be featured across DVA’s internal and external communication channels, including social media. You may also be asked to share your story with media channels through DVA’s Media team.
Veterans interested in sharing their story are invited to contact the DVA Communications team at communications@dva.gov.au by Tuesday 8 September 2026.
To help start the conversation, please include the following in your email:
- when and where you served in Afghanistan, and in what role
- a brief overview of your experience
- one or two memories or reflections you would be comfortable sharing
- your current town or city of residence.
Family members and friends are also encouraged to get in touch on behalf of veterans who may be interested in sharing their experiences.
Twenty-five years on, the stories of those who served remain at the heart of this anniversary. By sharing your experiences, you can help ensure the service and sacrifice of Australia’s Afghanistan veterans is remembered and recognised, for generations to come.
Defence image Photo By: Corporal (CPL) Ricky Fuller Caption: Private Robert Matheson (left) from the Darwin based 7th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment provides overwatch security as part of the 1st Reconstruction Task Force while out on a mission to conduct village assessments and quick impact projects in the Uruzgan Province.
