Australia made sacrifices on a stupendous scale in World War I, which was the crucible in which the nation's identity was forged, Prime Minister Tony Abbott says in his Remembrance Day message.
"From a population of under five million, 417,000 enlisted, 332,000 served overseas, 152,000 were wounded and 61,000 never came home," he said in Beijing, where he is attending an APEC summit.
"It was sacrifice on a stupendous scale. Every November 11, Australia renews its vow to never forget the sacrifice.
"We pause to remember the suffering and loss that has occurred in all wars, for we are a country of memory, as well as memorials.
"Today, we will remember the courage, achievements, pain and loss of all who have served in our name.
"And we draw strength from their memory."
