Shrine aerial view

The Shrine is Victoria’s memorial dedicated to all those who have served in the armed conflicts and peacekeeping operations in which Australia has participated.

Constructed to commemorate the 89,100 Victorian men and women who served overseas in the First World War and the 19,000 who made the supreme sacrifice, the Shrine provided a place for those affected by the Great War to grieve for loved ones lost overseas. Since its dedication in 1934 it has grown to encompass not just the men and women of the First World War, but the service and sacrifice of Victorians in war, conflict, peacekeeping and peacemaking across a century of conflict.

Today few Australians have direct experience of war or an immediate connection to a soldier, sailor or airman lost on active service in the way those who raised the Shrine in 1934 did. Instead of visiting from a sense of private grief today’s visitors come to the Shrine to remember, and to learn, as a community.

The Shrine remains a sacred site within the City of Melbourne, located on a large memorial parkland known as the Shrine Reserve. Commemorative services take place across the 13 hectares of Shrine land.