Last Post Ceremony
Commencing at approximately 4.30 pm AEDT, the Memorial farewells visitors with its moving Last Post Ceremony in the Commemorative Courtyard. Each night the ceremony shares the story behind one of the names on the Roll of Honour.
The Last Post Ceremony is proudly supported by RSL Australia and the RSL & Services Clubs Association.
If you have missed a particular ceremony, you can find the video recording by searching for that person or checking the YouTube channel. You can purchase the video through Memorial eSales. Rarely, technical difficulties may mean a recording is unavailable.
About the ceremony
The ceremony begins with the Australian National Anthem followed by the piper's lament. Visitors are invited to lay wreaths and floral tributes beside the Pool of Reflection. An individual's story is told, and the Ode is recited by Australian Defence Force personnel. The ceremony ends with the sounding of the Last Post. From February to November the Last Post Ceremony includes Australia's Federation Guard (on the first and third Wednesday of each month).
The Last Post Ceremony is an increasingly popular public event. We recommend early arrival as the Memorial is unable to reserve spaces for groups.
See whose stories will be shared in upcoming Last Post Ceremonies.
Frequently asked questions
Can I request someone to be commemorated?
If you have a family member on the Roll of Honour you can request for their story to be told at the Last Post Ceremony. In order to make a request, you first need to read these guidelines which will help you understand the process.
How can I know who is being commemorated?
Refer to the Last Post Ceremony calendar, which lists the name of the individual being commemorated each day.
Can my school attend and participate?
School attendance at the Memorial’s Last Post Ceremony must be booked through the School Bookings portal. Availability is visible when booking online. Please email school.bookings@awm.gov.au for further information.
Can I lay a wreath at the ceremony?
Yes. Please make yourself known to staff at the Front Desk no later than 4 pm on the day. Commemorative cards on wreaths and floral tributes will be catalogued and archived by the Memorial, and kept in perpetuity.
Wreaths are laid at the Pool of Reflection
More information
Requests for further information relating to the Last Post Ceremony can be directed to lastpostceremony@awm.gov.au.
The Last Post Ceremony is proudly supported by RSL Australia and the RSL & Services Clubs Association.