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Group of soldiers, three men and two women, celebrating V.J. Day (Victory in Japan) in the Botanic Gardens, Brisbane

Victory in the Pacific

Commemorated 15 August: the anniversary of the end of World War II.

Victory in the Pacific Day commemorates Japan's unconditional surrender to the Allies after more than 3 years of war. For Australians, it marked the end of World War II in the Pacific region.

Australia played a vital role in the Pacific campaign, with its servicemen and women bravely fighting alongside Allied forces. The announcement of Japan's surrender on August 15, 1945, was met with a sense of tremendous releif and sparked celebrations across the country.

On this day, we remember the important role that Australia played during World War II, particularly in the Pacific region from 1941 to 1945. We take a moment to acknowledge the service, sacrifice, and courage of all the men and women who fought to protect our nation, values, and way of life during this war.

Place a poppy at Anzac Square and online

Place a poppy
Crowd gathers to celebrate on VJ Day in Brisbane, 1945

A history of  Victory in the Pacific

Learn how Brisbane celebrated Victory in the Pacific in 1945.