Victory in the Pacific Day

Victory in the Pacific Day, commemorates Japan's acceptance of the Allied demand for unconditional surrender. For Australians, it meant that the Second World War was finally over.

Celebrated on the 15 August, this year Victorians may be unable to mark the end of World War II with traditional commemorations and gatherings, but there are still many ways to connect with and honour our veterans from home.

Visit the Victoria Govenrment website to learn more about Victoria’s WWII veterans, stories from the homefront, the impact on Victoria and sites that were used during WWII.

VP DAY ONLINE

On Saturday, August 15, mark the end of WWII by watching the Victory in the Pacific Day online presentation on RSL Victoria and the Shrine of Remembrance Facebook and YouTube. The presentation begins at 11.20am.

RESPONSE, REFLECTION AND REJUVENATION

Watch interviews, multimedia and virtual reality tours and explore 18 sites that show the impact of WWII on Victoria, our society and built environment.

WOMEN WORK FOR VICTORY

Visit the online exhibition tracing the little-known stories and contributions of women to the war effort. 

IMAGINING CENTAUR

Explore other WWII stories on the Shrine of Remembrance website including works from celebrated artist Dean Bowen exploring the tragic story of Australian Hospital Ship Centaur that sank on 14 May 1943. . 

INVOLVE THE CHILDREN

Download the bunting template and let youngsters put their stamp on the day by creating bunting designs to decorate the front gate or fence, inside windows or front door.

PAY TRIBUTE

Share messages of support and thanks on social media by using the hashtags #victoriaremembers and #VPDay75. Head to Victoria Remembers Facebook to download the 75th Anniversary World War II Facebook Frame to honour past and living family members who served during WWII.

THANK A VETERAN

Write a letter of thanks to a WWII veteran and post to ANZAC House, 4 Collins St, Melbourne, Vic, 3000. RSL Victoria will distribute letters to Victorian WWII veterans.

IN RECOGNITION

Every living World War II veteran can receive a Commemorative Medallion and Certificate of Commemoration from the Department of Veterans Affairs. If you have a family member, friend or neighbour who is a World War II veteran, ensure they receive their medallion and certificate by registering their details online or call 1800 838 372.

SITES OF SIGNIFICANCE

Explore Victorian sites used during WWII as they were then, and as they are now and share now and then pictures of Victorian sites during WWII on social media #victoriaremembers #VPDay75

WWII HISTORY

Read more about the war and the significance of Victory in the Pacific Day.

Place of pride: Green Point Cenotaph, Brighton