ANZAC Day 2025 in Melbourne

ANZAC Day is a national day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand that honours the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who served and died in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.

ANZAC Day is observed each year on 25 April, marking the anniversary of the ANZAC landing at Gallipoli in 1915 during World War I.

Today, ANZAC Day commemorates not only those who fought at Gallipoli but all Australian and New Zealand service men and women who have served the nation in times of war and peace.

Traditional activities include dawn services, marches, wreath-laying ceremonies, and public memorials across both countries.

What’s On for ANZAC Day 2025 in Melbourne

• 🕯️ Dawn Service at Shrine of Remembrance (5:30 AM)
• 🎖️ ANZAC Day March (Starts 9:00 AM, St Kilda Road to Shrine)
• 🏉 AFL ANZAC Day Clash: Collingwood vs Essendon at the MCG
• 🥐 ANZAC Day breakfasts and special openings across Melbourne
• 🛍️ Public Holiday Trading: Major shopping centres open later
• 🚌 Free public transport for veterans and serving personnel

Dawn Service at the Shrine of Remembrance

The heart of ANZAC Day in Melbourne is the Dawn Service at the Shrine of Remembrance.
The service begins at 5:30 AM, and it is best to arrive by 4:45 AM to find a good spot. Expect a deeply moving ceremony with traditional readings, the Last Post, and a minute of silence as the sun rises.

This year, Melbourne is expecting a chilly morning around 7°C at dawn, so dress warmly and bring a jacket.
How to get there:

• Early tram services operate on routes 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67, and 72.
• Limited parking is available near Domain Road and Birdwood Avenue.

ANZAC Day March – Melbourne CBD

The ANZAC Day March invites all to honour veterans, serving personnel, and their descendants.

The March begins at the corner of Flinders and Swanston Streets at 9:00 AM and proceeds along St Kilda Road to the Shrine.

Along the march route and at Federation Square, volunteers will be selling ANZAC Appeal badges to raise funds for veteran support services. Donations are welcomed.

Road closures across the CBD will start early morning and last until around 1 PM. Plan your travel accordingly.

AFL ANZAC Day Game at the MCG

The annual AFL ANZAC Day blockbuster between Collingwood and Essendon will take place at the MCG.

First bounce is scheduled for 3:20 PM. The pre-match ceremony includes a commemorative address, the National Anthem, and a minute’s silence.

Transport tips:

• Take any City Loop train and walk from Federation Square.
• Tram routes 48, 70, and 75 stop near the stadium.
• Check out our Free parking near the MCG guide for parking options.

Tickets are highly sought after, so early booking is recommended.

Where to Have ANZAC Day Breakfast or Brunch

After the Dawn Service or the March, many Melbourne cafes open early with special menus.

Top spots include:

• Time Out Fed Square – Opens at 6:00 AM with hearty breakfasts.
• The Kettle Black, South Melbourne – Opens at 7:30 AM and is a 10-minute tram ride from the Shrine.
• Cumulus Inc., Flinders Lane – Offers a stylish brunch experience from early morning.

Booking ahead is strongly recommended for ANZAC morning.

Public Holiday Trading and Transport

• Major shopping centres such as Chadstone and Highpoint open from around 1 PM.
• Smaller retailers and independent businesses often remain closed for most of the day.
• Veterans, war widows, and serving personnel can access free public transport services.
• Regular passengers should expect Sunday and public holiday timetables.

ANZAC Day in Melbourne

Melbourne holds a special place in ANZAC history. The city has seen volunteers depart from Station Pier and continues to honour their legacy each year.

ANZAC Day reminds Australians that courage, mateship, and sacrifice are part of our shared story.

Final Tips for ANZAC Day 2025

• Dress warmly, as April mornings in Melbourne can be chilly.
• Bring a reusable coffee cup to support pop-up coffee stalls at the Shrine.
• Remain respectful throughout all ceremonies, especially during moments of silence.

🇦🇺 Lest We Forget

Frequently Asked Questions about ANZAC Day 2025 in Melbourne

1. Is the ANZAC Day Dawn Service free to attend?

Yes. The Dawn Service at the Shrine of Remembrance is free and open to the public.

2. Can anyone join the ANZAC Day March in Melbourne?

No. Only veterans, serving personnel, and descendants are allowed to officially march.

3. Is public transport free on ANZAC Day in Melbourne?

Yes, but only for veterans and serving personnel. General public must use a valid Myki card under a Sunday timetable.

4. Will shops be open on ANZAC Day morning in Melbourne?

No. Most major shopping centres and retail stores open around 1 PM.

5. Is the AFL ANZAC Day match at the MCG open to everyone?

Yes. Anyone can buy tickets, but the match often sells out quickly.

6. Do I need to book for an ANZAC Day breakfast?

Yes. Most cafes fill up fast on ANZAC morning, so reservations are highly recommended.

7. Will the Shrine of Remembrance have wheelchair access on ANZAC Day?

Yes. The Shrine is wheelchair accessible, although large crowds may make movement slower.

8. Is photography allowed during the Dawn Service?

Yes, but be respectful. Discreet, non-flash photography is permitted, but silence must be maintained.

9. Will Melbourne trams run early for the Dawn Service?

Yes. Special early tram services will operate to transport people to the Shrine.

10. Can children attend the Dawn Service?

Yes. Children are welcome but should be supervised and reminded to stay silent during ceremonies.

11. Are pets allowed at the Dawn Service?

No. Only service animals are permitted during official ceremonies at the Shrine.

12. Is parking available at the Shrine of Remembrance?

Yes, but very limited. Public transport is strongly encouraged due to road closures and crowd sizes.

13. Are there food and drinks available near the Shrine on ANZAC Day?

Yes. Coffee carts and some early-opening cafes operate near the Shrine precinct.

14. Does the ANZAC Day March include descendants of veterans?

Yes. Descendants are welcome to march in honour of family members who served.

15. Will there be any road closures in Melbourne CBD on ANZAC Day?

Yes. Road closures start early morning and affect much of St Kilda Road and surrounding street.