The Legacy Centenary Torch Relay was launched in Pozières, France on April 23 to mark the start of a journey to celebrate 100 years since the Legacy promise was made.
After travelling from France via Belgium to London, the torch arrived in Albany, Western Australia, on May 3.
The relay will comprise 1500 bearers carrying the torch through 50 towns and cities, visiting all Legacy Australia clubs.
Legacy Centenary Torch Relay ADF Liaison Officer Colonel Scott Clingan recited the Ode of Remembrance at the opening ceremony at the Pozières British cemetery in France, which included a torch-passing ceremony and the sounding of the Last Post. The Australian and French national anthems were also played.
"The ceremony provided a time to reflect and look forward to the next 100 years of connecting Legacy Australia with Defence families in need," Colonel Clingan said.
He said the significance of the ceremony was profound.
"The opening of the relay in Pozières, France, was a truly special experience," Colonel Clingan said.
"It was a fitting tribute where the first Legacy battlefield promise was made in World War 1.
"Defence is proud to support the six-month torch relay, and to give back in honour of the 100 years that Legacy Australia has supported Defence families."
Legacy supports more than 40,000 beneficiaries.
More than 3400 volunteers around the country strive to ensure Legacy's promise - to support the families of veterans who lost their lives or suffered as a result of their service - is kept.
Joining Legacy to acknowledge veterans' families and the many volunteers who have provided support over the past 100 years, and those who continue to do so, Defence is providing planning and coordination assistance for the relay, as well as personnel to escort the torch bearers on the epic 55,000km journey across Australia.
Defence's support aims to highlight to communities the important work Legacy does assisting veterans' families.
The services Legacy provides include medical, financial, developmental and social support.
Funds raised by Legacy through the relay will help these services continue.
The relay will conclude on October 13 at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, where Legacy was founded by Stan Savige.
To find out more about the relay, visit: www.legacytorchrelay.com.au
