This month marks the 25th anniversary of Australia's deployment to Afghanistan. Between 2001 and 2021, more than 46,000 Australians served in Afghanistan, Iraq and the Middle East. Australian forces served not only in Operation Slipper in Afghanistan between 2001 and 2014 but also in Operation Highroad in Afghanistan between 2015 and 2021, in Operation Falconer in Iraq in 2003, in Operation Catalyst in Iraq between 2003 and 2009 and in operations Kruger and Riverbank between 2009 and 2013. More than 40 Australians made the ultimate sacrifice, with many more sustaining serious wounds in conflict.

I recently had the solemn privilege of laying a wreath at the Engadine RSL sub-Branch's Afghanistan, Iraq and Middle East area of operations commemorative service to honour their service. The evening honoured those brave Australians who gave their lives in these conflicts and commemorated the more than 46,000 Australians who served during these operations, as well as acknowledging the sacrifices made by their families.

This year's theme was ' Twenty-five years of service. Twenty-five years of sacrifice. Twenty-five years of coming home.' It reflected not only the contribution of Australian soldiers overseas but also the enduring legacy, as well as physical and psychological scars of service, carried home by veterans and their families. They have sometimes struggled to adjust to civilian life, and it is my hope that our government can continue to work with networks such as the Engadine RSL sub-Branch to provide our veterans with the assistance and support they deserve. I want to recognise Brad Copelin, RSL subbranch president, and the team at the subbranch for the important and solemn service. I hope that this parliament can take the time to commemorate the contributions that Australians have made in Afghanistan, Iraq and the Middle East area of operations. Lest we forget.