Today marks the 80th Anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day and the end of the conflict in Europe during the Second World War.
Minister for Veterans' Affairs, Jacquie Petrusma, said during this time, Australians were involved in conflicts across Europe, North Africa, the Middle East and the Atlantic against Nazi Germany and its European allies.
"On this VE Day, we pause to remember with gratitude the courage, sacrifice and service of all who served during the Second World War," Minister Petrusma said.
"Lest we forget."
Almost one million Australians enlisted for service in the Second World War, with more than 10,000 giving their lives in the war in the European theatre, nearly 10,000 more being wounded, and almost 8,000 becoming prisoners of war.
Over 30,000 Tasmanians enlisted, with over 1,100 killed and nearly 300 decorated for bravery. Around 200 Tasmanian women served overseas, primarily as nurses.
While peace in Europe was celebrated across the nation on 8 May 1945, the war in the Pacific would continue until August 1945.
