The company said it was honouring the contribution of past and present serving Australians and New Zealanders through the BHP Billiton Foundation.
 
The donation was announced by Australian Minister for Veterans' Affairs and Minister assisting the Prime Minister for the Centenary of Anzac, Senator Michael Ronaldson.
 
"BHP Billiton's commitment to the wellbeing of our nation began many years ago and it has long provided support for our servicemen and women," he said.
 
"This sizeable investment in the Anzac Centenary Public Fund will allow many Australians an opportunity to remember all those who have worn our nation's uniform and ensure the Anzac spirit lives on."
 
BHP steel and zinc was used throughout World War I as an input for munitions and shipbuilding.
 
BHP CEO Andrew Mackenzie said the company had played an important role in wartime history.
 
"Since the establishment of the Broken Hill Proprietary Company in 1883, BHP Billiton has actively participated in the development and advancement of Australia, including during war times," he said.
 
"The Newcastle steelworks commenced operation in June 1915 - an industry that would define BHP and Australia's economy for many years.
 
"Overseas restrictions during the war meant that BHP's steel sustained Australian industry."
 
Mackenzie said the April 25 Anzac commemorations were about recognising the selflessness of veterans and serving defence force personnel.
 
"Many of our employees and their family members served in WWI, and we continue to support veterans and those who serve in the armed forces today," he said.
 
Australian Defence Force veteran Tor Killman is a maintenance supervisor at BHP's New South Wales Energy Coal division.
 
"Anzac day has a very special meaning for me personally, having served for eight years with the Army before joining BHP Billiton and knowing members of my family and my wife's served in Gallipoli," he said.
 
"For me, it is extremely important that we have a place to remember the sacrifice of the diggers, reflect on how lucky we are as a country and to teach our history to the next generation."