Diggers prepare for Afghan Anzac Day

For the first time in more than a decade, Australia will mark an Anzac Day without large numbers of its troops overseas.

Australians are still serving in missions in Africa and the Middle East, and about 400 remain in Afghanistan following the withdrawal of the main force late last year.

They will mark Anzac Day with the traditional dawn services in Kabul and Kandahar.

Also participating at some locations will be Turkish, British and French troops, whose forebears also fought on the Gallipoli peninsular.

Australians routinely participate in national events staged by troops of other countries.

Brigadier Michael Mahy, Australia's senior national representative in Afghanistan, said Anzac Day was an occasion to do something uniquely Australian, but which involved international partners.

"It's quite an enriching experience," he told AAP.

And it's not just about Aussies and Kiwis.

"It's recognition of all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their country," Brig Mahy said.

The main event will likely be at the multinational base at Kabul airport where the Australian headquarters is located.

Separate dawn services will be conducted at the International Security Assistance Force headquarters and at the Afghan National Army Officers Academy, both in Kabul, as well as in Kandahar.

For the Aussies at HQ, there will be the dawn service and breakfast - and a game of touch footy, pitting Australians and New Zealanders against the rest. Then it's back to work.

Because there are no longer big numbers of Australians in the one place, gone will be one Anzac Day tradition - the issue of two cans of beer a soldier.

It's a rare treat because alcohol consumption is limited to special occasions for Australian troops in the Middle East.