Vic remembers war sacrifice and service

Ex-army major Bruce Davies sometimes feels a little numb on Remembrance Day.

Mr Davies, who joined the army as a private in 1961 and served three years in Vietnam, was among 6000 people at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne including Premier Denis Napthine, Opposition Leader Daniel Andrews and Governor Alex Chernov.

Mr Davies said the service prompted memories of friends and family.

"Sometimes it numbs you a little bit, that you are recalling some of your friends," Mr Davies said.

"And sometimes you think about any members of your family who had served in the military. My grandfather served during World War I and passed away far too early in life."

The service on Tuesday was marked by a minute's silence and a formal military parade, while the RAAF flew over the shrine.

Bright red poppies were dotted through the crowd and grounds, while flags were lowered to half mast.

The Galleries of Remembrance, a $45 million government-funded redevelopment at the memorial, will also be open to the public for the first time on Tuesday after a formal dedication ceremony.

It comprises 1600 square metres of undercroft space beneath the shine, including exhibition space to showcase Australia's war and peacekeeping history as well as an auditorium and education centre.