The freedom we enjoy today is a direct result of so many having fought and died in times of war.

Thousands committed to a cause to ensure this country's future was secured for many generations to come. We should never take that for granted.

Anzac Day this year will be very different as we reflect and pay thanks to our diggers in a setting where we are unable to physically come together.

To protect the community from the COVID-19 pandemic, health authorities have banned public gatherings to ensure social distancing is maintained forcing RSL NSW to make the difficult decision to cancel Anzac Day commemorations in 2020, including services and marches.

This is consistent with the approach of RSL organisations across Australia with the support of all State and Territory Governments and the Commonwealth Government.

This year we will all experience Anzac Day in a different way, with special services televised from Canberra at 5:30am and Sydney at 10am. The services will be broadcast live on ABC TV and streamed on the Anzac Memorial and RSL Facebook pages.

The RSL is calling on us all to show our ANZAC Spirit: When times are tough, Australians have always relied on the distinctive qualities of mateship, humour, ingenuity, courage and endurance to get us through.

Known as the ANZAC Spirit, these five qualities have defined Australians ever since the first troops landed on the beaches of Gallipoli in WWI.

In the current climate, we're reminding Australians that we all bear these qualities within us, ready to come to the fore when we need them.

Like many others in the community I will be taking up the opportunity to Light the Dawn by standing in my driveway at 6.00am and listening to a brief commemorative service while I remember those who served and sacrificed.

You can record and share videos reciting the ode, or post a photo and message of support on social media using the tags #AnzacDay2020, #AnzacDayathome, #AnzacSpirit and @AnzacMemorial.

To find out how you can commemorate ANZAC Day 2020 visit www.rslnsw.org.au/commemoration/anzac-day-2020

"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them."