Australia marks 25 years of military involvement in Afghanistan

October 11, 2026, marks the 25th anniversary of the beginning of Australia’s involvement in Afghanistan. Over two decades of deployment, more than 35,000 Australian servicemen and women served in the Middle East until the 2021 withdrawal. The service resulted in the deaths of 47 Australian Defence Force personnel and left 263 others wounded.

Veterans and organizations are reflecting on the impact of the mission. Former Lance Corporal Mathew Bell noted the sense of accomplishment in providing security and access to services, such as education for girls, in areas like Tarinkot, contrasting it with current conditions under the Taliban.

Make A Mark Australia is honoring the sacrifice of those who served and acknowledging the families affected. The organization highlighted humanitarian and educational legacies, such as the Malilai Girls’ School in Tarin Kowt, which was built with the help of an Australian Defence Force managed works team. The school was designed to accommodate 700 students and received support from former Governor-General Dame Quentin Bryce during her tenure.