“Over a period of 61 years, Australian peacekeepers and peacemakers have carved out a reputation for providing outstanding support to restore order in unstable, dangerous environments and to aid the victims of conflict,” Mr Griffin said. “Our peacekeepers have come from the Defence Force, federal and state police forces, and Australian Government agencies such as the Australian Electoral Commission, AusAID, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.”

Mr Griffin said Australia has made a significant contribution to worldwide peace operations and it was appropriate to pay tribute to the efforts of the men and women involved.

“Australian peacekeeping has a rich history that is still being written in places such as East Timor and the Solomon Islands,’ Mr Griffin said. “The important work done by peacekeepers has not always been fully appreciated and recognised in the past. Today, the dangers they face and the contributions they make in seeking to restore order and stability at troubled sites around the world are more readily brought home to us through the media. These operations are conducted with little fanfare in the aftermath of conflicts that have either never been, or are no longer, in the public eye.”

“I encourage all Australians to observe Australian Peacekeepers Day and reflect on the important role our peacekeepers have played around the world and continue to play."