An artist’s impression of the redeveloped Australian War Memorial. Image: AWM.
The Australian War Memorial will reopen to the public on Wednesday 17 November, but visitors will need to use a new temporary entrance as the planned $500 million redevelopment project progresses.
The new temporary entrance, on the eastern side of the main building opposite Poppy’s café, will be the main visitor entry point for the next three years.
Early works have included the demolition of Anzac Hall and removal of trees and plans have been lodged with the National Capital Authority for the main works including a new bigger Anzac Hall and Glazed Link, a new southern entrance, forecourt and parade ground and the Bean Building Extension.
The controversial redevelopment will create more space so the memorial can also tell the stories of more contemporary conflicts and missions.
Many areas will remain accessible to visitors throughout the project including Aircraft Hall, First World War Galleries, Second World War Galleries and the Commemorative Area, including the Roll of Honour, Pool of Reflection, Eternal Flame, Hall of Memory and Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier.
Work starts at the Australian War Memorial in June. Photo: File.
However, construction activity will impact access to the Conflicts 1945 to Today Gallery, and ticketed access on specific days and times will be required via the memorial’s website.
Visitors will also require timed tickets to enter the memorial galleries and to attend the daily Last Post Ceremony at 4:45 pm in the Commemorative Area.
Limited tickets are also available for the Remembrance Day 2021 National Ceremony on 11 November.
In line with the ACT Government’s COVID-19 guidelines, 500 ticketed attendees will be permitted to ensure the health and safety of visitors and staff.
The National Ceremony will be broadcast live from the memorial on the ABC from 10:45 am.
Memorial Director Matt Anderson, said he was looking forward to welcoming visitors back in the coming weeks and he encouraged everyone to book a free ticket online to guarantee entry.
“We know how much it means to people to be able to commemorate at the memorial in person and although there will be some disruption on site as the development project unfolds, visitors will still be able to explore many of our galleries and reflect and pay their respects in the Commemorative Area.”
More information on visiting the memorial and booking free timed tickets is available on the AWM website.
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