Embassies help expats respect Anzac Day

Australian high commissions and embassies around the world have taken to social media platforms to enable expats commemorate Anzac Day.

Global travel restrictions because of the coronavirus pandemic have prevented traditional Anzac ceremonies abroad taking place, such as at Gallipolli, Kokoda, and Villers-Bretonneux.

"While this year is different, we can all still mark Anzac Day," Foreign Affairs Minister Marise Payne told AAP.

"Our embassies and high commissions are playing an important role to bring Australian expats together to commemorate virtually."

She said Australians around the world were able to pay their respects through social media accounts of their local embassy or high commission and by watching the Australian War Memorial's Anzac Day commemorative service online.

A number of Australian embassies and high commissions - including in New Zealand, PNG, Malaysia, Belgium, Tokyo, the Middle East, the United States, Chile, and the Pacific - held small ceremonies and other virtual events in accordance with local COVID-19 restrictions.

In London, Australia's High Commission will broadcast a special service hosted by the High Commissioner for Australia and the Acting High Commissioner for New Zealand from their respective homes in the UK.

Australia's embassy in Paris will hold a short Dawn Service from the balconies of the residence.

"Each embassy is doing its part to make the Australian community that are still overseas, as well as those at home watching, very aware that Anzac Day continues despite the severe lockdown in many of our countries where we serve in," Australia's Ambassador to France, Brendan Berne told Channel Nine.