Throughout 2026, events and activities will be conducted around Australia to mark Navy’s 125th anniversary. The celebration of this historic milestone throughout the entire year is an opportunity to reflect on Navy’s past, honour the contributions of Navy people and look ahead towards the future.
In 1901, the States of Australia formed the Commonwealth of Australia. The Commonwealth Naval Forces and the Commonwealth Military Force were then established on 1 March 1901.
The title Royal Australian Navy was granted on our naval force in 1911, and the First Australian Fleet units entered Sydney Harbour in October 1913, led by the battle cruise HMAS Australia I.
Since then, the Royal Australian Navy has been protecting our region to ensure Australia’s security and prosperity at home.