Anzac data reveals ‘troubling’ disconnect between young Australians and our nation’s veterans

Anzac Day is a timely reminder that the comfort of our daily lives is not accidental, it’s a legacy secured through sacrifice, writes Michelle Fyfe.

New research released this week reveals a timely yet troubling disconnect between young Australians and our nation’s veterans.

Most disturbingly, the research found that one-in-five Gen Zers admit they do not value the contributions veterans make to Australia, and one-in-four do not feel a strong connection to Anzac Day.

This isn’t merely an oversight, it’s a glaring generational gap in appreciating the sacrifice and service that built the very society and freedoms we enjoy today.

The problem stems from a fundamental misunderstanding of who a veteran is and what they do to safeguard our nation. According to the research conducted by the Royal Australian Air Force Association, nearly 90 per cent of Australians admit they cannot confidently describe the role of a veteran.

The same research reveals almost a third of Australians (32 per cent) incorrectly believe that veterans are exclusively those who’ve served in combat.

2016 Anzac Dawn Service on the Gallipoli Peninsula, Turkey. Picture: Ella Pellegrini

Such findings highlight a significant misconception, overlooking that veterans today perform vital roles extending far beyond the battlefield.

Today’s veterans provide invaluable contributions to our way of life, including humanitarian aid, disaster recovery and community building.

These play a vital role in shaping our national identity and global standing.

The Anzac Dawn Service held at Martin Place in 2012. Picture: Bill Hearne

Australians attend the Anzac Day dawn service at Anzac Cove in Gallipoli. Picture: Ella Pellegrini

The misunderstanding of a veteran’s role poses substantial risk to the appreciation and value of contributions of veterans by our society.

Without adequate understanding and appreciation, we fail to honour and empathise with those who have safeguarded our nation’s prosperity, stability, and safety.

This is a disservice not just to our veterans, but to the historical fabric and future resilience of our nation.

The Anzac Day Dawn Service at Martin Place, Sydney.

Australia’s enviable position as the “lucky country” is not by chance. Our sustained peace and prosperity have been secured by generations of Australians who put the nation’s welfare above their own.

Yet, ironically, the generation benefiting most significantly from this stability appears least appreciative of those who secured it.

The findings of the report have illuminated not just misconceptions but the urgent need for intervention. What it tells us is there is a powerful opportunity to bridge this generational awareness gap through education and government reform.

It tells us that education about our veterans must extend beyond the superficial recognition of military history.

It should encompass the diverse and ongoing roles veterans undertake, creating an authentic and comprehensive appreciation for their contributions.

Mirroring this should be a review of the Australian Government’s approach to support services for veterans — a system the Royal Commission into defence and veteran suicide revealed to be diluted, sporadic and outdated for the needs of a contemporary veteran, forcing many to navigate a challenging transition from service to civilian life without adequate support.

Anzac Cove on the shores of Gallipoli, Turkey. Picture: iStock

With global affairs becoming increasingly volatile, now more than ever we must unite in support of those who serve, and have served, our country.

As a society, we must dismantle misconceptions and actively invest in tailored support services for our veterans.

Anzac Day is a timely reminder that the comfort of our daily lives is not accidental, it’s a legacy secured through sacrifice. The very least we can do in return is to genuinely acknowledge, honour and support those who have given so much to keep us safe.

Michelle Fyfe is CEO of Royal Australian Air Force Association WA.