03/09/2026
Recognising the crucial role of the Merchant Navy
3 September 2026
Each year on 3 September, we commemorate Merchant Navy Day. This day marks the anniversary of the sinking of the first Allied merchant ship during the Second World War. Merchant Navy Day is a day to reflect on the important role of Australia’s merchant mariners in times of war.
Australia’s merchant mariners (also commonly known as merchant seamen) sailed under the Australian Red Ensign. This flag was affectionately called the ‘Red Duster’. It is a version of the Australian national flag that was first flown 125 years ago on 3 September 1901. Australia’s Red Ensign has a red background instead of the usual blue background. It was first introduced in February 1903.
In times of war, the Merchant Navy provided an invaluable lifeline to Allied countries, including Australia. They gave vital support to the armed forces through the transport of personnel, supplies, equipment and ammunition, and provided care for the wounded and sick. Although the majority of merchant mariners were men, some women and teenaged boys also served in wartime merchant ships. They sailed through turbulent waters across the globe. They carried out their duties in diverse areas, from the Atlantic Ocean and Arctic Circle to the Pacific and Indian Oceans. They endured the extremes of nature and the weather, including sleet and snow in winter or the unending heat of the tropics.
Their ships were often unarmed, relying on escorting warships and aircraft to defend them against attacks by enemy submarines, warships and aircraft. Despite the constant threat of attacks and sea mines, members of the Merchant Navy worked tirelessly to supply both the home front and the battlefront.
Approximately 20,000 Allied merchant mariners lost their lives in the First World War and more than 45,000 in the Second World War. The Australian Merchant Seamen's Memorial at the Australian War Memorial records the names of 182 Australian merchant mariners known to have died during the First World War and a further 386 during the Second World War. The total number of Australians who served or lost their lives is unknown, as many served aboard other Allied merchant vessels.
Today, we recognise those merchant mariners who served aboard troopships, hospital ships, and cargo ships. Australia’s merchant mariners played a vital role in nearly every major conflict of the twentieth century, including the two world wars, Korean War, Malayan Emergency, and Vietnam War. Their actions are a reminder that service comes in many forms.
We remember their vital contributions to the war efforts, acknowledge the risks they took, and the crucial role they played. We remain grateful for their service and sacrifices, both in times of war and peace.
Lest we forget.
For more information, please visit https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/commemoration/days/merchant-navy-day
Sourced from https://www.dva.gov.au/news/latest-stories/recognising-the-crucial-role-of-the-merchant-navy-0
