COMMEMORATING AUSTRALIA’S PEACEKEEPERS
Media Statement – Minister for Veterns’ Affairs 14 September 2015
Today, Australian Peacekeepers Day, is a time to acknowledge the Australian men and women who have played an important role in restoring peace and harmony in areas affected by conflict around the globe.
“Since Australia’s commitment to the first United Nations (UN) peacekeeping mission in September 1947, Australian military, police and civilians have been undertaking peace operations worldwide. More than 30,000 Australians have been involved in peacekeeping and humanitarian operations since 1947,” the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Centenary of ANZAC, Senator the Hon. Michael Ronaldson, said.
“Today, we acknowledge and honour all those who are currently serving in peace and security operations, including those who are serving in our continuous participation in the Middle East and Cyprus.”
A number of multinational operations have been commanded by Australians. These include operations in Kashmir, Cambodia, the Sinai, Iraq and Timor-Leste.
In addition to these leading roles, Australians have served in regions throughout the world in locations including the Middle East, Cyprus, Cambodia, Bougainville, the Solomon Islands, Somalia and Rwanda, among others.
“As a nation, we are known throughout the world for our operational readiness to contribute troops or support the UN with peacekeeping operations,” Senator Ronaldson said.
“Today we remember in particular all Australians who have lost their lives during non-warlike and peacekeeping operations. Each year on Australian Peacekeepers Day, we show our appreciation of the significant work undertaken by our peacekeepers.”
Donations can be made to the Australian Peacekeeping Memorial Project fund through their website http://www.peacekeepingmemorial.org.au/objectives.php
Media enquiries:
Minister Ronaldson: Mark Lee 02 6277 7820 or 0408 547 381
Department of Veterans’ Affairs Media: 02 6289 6203