Four Australians were part of the United Nations' first group of military observers deployed to monitor the ceasefire between Dutch colonial and Indonesian nationalist forces in 1947.

Since then, Australia's peacekeeping contributions have grown in both size and scope, with more than 66,000 men and women serving in over 60 international operations.

"Peacekeeping is the front-end of a complex, long-term process of creating the necessary conditions for sustainable peace," Australian War Memorial historian Dr David Sutton said.

"It is also usually the pointy end of this process and it comes with inherent risks."

Six Australian police officers and 10 defence force members have died while serving on peacekeeping operations.

"We should all take this time to recognise the service and sacrifice of our fellow Australians who served as peacekeepers," Veterans' Affairs Minister Matt Keogh said.

"(We should) ensure that their dedication to service and commitment to improving people's lives in places where war and conflict have taken place is always remembered."

The Last Post ceremony commemorating the 75th anniversary will take place at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra from 10.30am on Wednesday.

A temporary photo display showcasing images taken during overseas peacekeeping operations will also be unveiled.

An exhibition, In the Service of Peace, will be displayed at the war memorial until October 9.

Australian Associated Press