Observing a minute's silence at 11.30 am on Saturday and contacting veterans by phone, email or letter are among the ways the community can honour them and take part in Anzac Day 2020, suggests Mark Coulton.
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The federal Member for Parkes is encouraging participation in Anzac Day despite Australians being told to stay home on April 25 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"While it may look different this year, Anzac Day is not cancelled, and there are a range of ways we can all pay our respects and mark the day," he said.
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Mr Coulton said a dawn service at the Australian War Memorial would be televised nationally on the ABC on Anzac Day.
"This is an important opportunity for everyone to reflect on the service and sacrifice of all Australians who have fought and died in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations over a century of service," he said.
"I also encourage people to pause at 11.30am for a minute's silence.
"This time corresponds with the landing of our troops at Gallipoli 105 years ago, and sends a clear message that despite the hardships we are facing, we continue to respect our servicemen and women."
Mr Coulton acknowledged Anzac Day was a time when many Australians commemorated alongside family and friends.
"... while current health advice prevents us from doing this, we still have the power of social media and can use the hashtags #AnzacAtHome and #TYFYS to share pictures and videos of our private commemorations," he said.
"I'm looking forward to watching stories and reading messages from my constituents online. We can really put together an Anzac Day that will make our veterans proud."
The Department of Veterans' Affairs has developed a range of resources to assist Australians to commemorate Anzac Day.
They can be downloaded at www.anzacportal.dva.gov.au.
"You could also use this Anzac Day to look into your family's military history," Mr Coulton said.
"The National Archives of Australia and the Australian War Memorial websites are great places to start."
Mr Coulton said many people staying home to minimise the spread of coronavirus, might be feeling isolated.
".. I encourage everyone to think about reaching out to someone they know who has served, whether by phone, email or even a letter," he said.
Mr Coulton said the "different ideas emerging about the ways Australians could pay their respects" this Anzac Day was inspiring.
"Whether it's a solitary driveway tribute, baking Anzac biscuits or a small ceremony with your household, I encourage everyone to pause, reflect and say a simple 'thank you for your service'," he said.
