The Australian War Memorial unveils the first of its new visitor spaces, and it’s the perfect time to take another look

Posted on 15 April, 2025

As the Australian War Memorial begins to reveal parts of its impressive transformation, there’s never been a better time for Canberrans to rediscover this national treasure in our own backyard.

Since 1941, the Australian War Memorial has been the place to remember all Australians who have served and died in war and on operational service, and to discover the meaning and relevance of this on our national identity.

Now, after years of extensive renovations, the Memorial has removed capacity limits and started revealing the first of its breathtaking new visitor spaces that honour Australia’s service history.

Here are some of the things not to miss.

A grand new welcome

The Memorial’s transformation starts the moment you arrive, with the spectacular new Main Entrance Foyer that opened to the public in February.

At the heart of the entrance sits the remarkable Oculus – a circular skylight that forms an inverted reflection of the famous dome of the Hall of Memory above. This architectural marvel consists of a steel frame manufactured in Melbourne with specially crafted glass inserts from Spain. Each “petal” of glass weighs a hefty 350 kg and required precise placement by a crane fitted with suction cups.

From this vantage point, visitors can look up for a glimpse of the iconic dome, creating a meaningful connection between the new spaces and the Memorial’s solemn purpose of commemoration.

Art that captivates and commemorates

The renovation has incorporated artistic elements that enhance the visitor experience. Look up as you enter the galleries using stunning spiral staircases to see “Quiet Skies. As the sun rises. As the sun sets” – two breathtaking suspended artworks created by internationally renowned Australian glass artist Annette Blair.

Located on the east and west sides of the building, these installations capture the colours of sunrise and sunset, with each featuring 900 meticulously crafted glass eucalypt leaves. The eastern staircase showcases the sunrise palette, while the western staircase reflects the warm hues of sunset – a poetic tribute to the dawn-to-dusk remembrance that takes place across Australia’s war memorials.

New spaces to explore

In the Main Entrance Foyer, visitors can explore local war memorials across the country from the moving “Places of Pride” interactive map and watch a moving film showcasing over 40 war memorials, reflecting the diverse ways Australians commemorate service and sacrifice.

Theatre lovers will want to mark 24 July – 3 August on their calendars for the inaugural live theatre performance of 21 Hearts: Vivian Bullwinkel and the nurses of Vyner Brooke.  A sell-out production from WA’s THEATRE 180 Company, it shares the compelling true story of the celebration of women’s strength, love and hope in the face of adversity. Don’t miss this unforgettable tribute as part of the Memorial’s commemorative program marking the 80^th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. Book your tickets today.

Honouring Indigenous Service

The Main Entrance also features a powerful new display dedicated to Captain Reginald Saunders, the first Australian Aboriginal commissioned officer in the Australian Army. Born a member of the Gunditjmara people, Captain Saunders served with distinction in both the Second World War and the Korean War, and his story represents an important chapter in Australia’s military history.

For the Researchers

History buffs and those tracing family military connections will appreciate the new Charles Bean Research Centre. As the nation’s foremost archive for Australian military history, the Research Centre provides assistance in accessing collections, help with academic and family research, and access to the Memorial’s extensive digitised materials, including archival records, photographs, and film and sound recordings.

Anzac Day Returns Home

This year marks a significant milestone as the Anzac Day Dawn Service returns to the Parade Ground for the first time in five years. Following the Dawn Service, the Commemorative Area will open between 6:30 am and 7:30 am, with poppies available on entry for a donation. The galleries will open from 1 pm, offering the perfect opportunity to experience the Memorial’s new spaces after participating in the morning’s commemorations.

Transport Canberra provides free bus travel to the service. Registrations are essential.

Worth a Visit Any Day

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture admirer, or simply looking for a meaningful way to spend a few hours, the transformed Australian War Memorial offers a fresh perspective on an institution that has been central to our national identity for over 80 years.

With more than 7,000 objects on display from the National Collection, the Memorial’s galleries and exhibitions explore Australia’s involvement in major conflicts and help to tell Australia’s continuing story of service, sacrifice and military history.

The thoughtful blend of heritage preservation and modern innovation creates a space that is both familiar and excitingly new.