Visitors welcomed back to Australian War Memorial

The Australian War Memorial reopened to visitors today, after its doors closed to the public on Monday 23 March.

From 10 am on 1 July, visitors with pre-booked tickets were welcomed into the Memorial in accordance with a COVID-safe business plan and ACT Government–recommended measures, prioritising the safety of staff and the public.

Director of the Australian War Memorial, Matt Anderson, said it was a good feeling to welcome members of the public back into the galleries and Commemorative Area of the Memorial.

“We have been looking forward to having visitors back to the Memorial since the day we closed our doors more than three months ago. 

“Tickets have almost been exhausted for our first day, so we encourage people to book their free tickets online before they visit to avoid missing out.

"Tonight's Last Post Ceremony will tell the story of Private Leslie James Hanlon, who died at the age of 24 during the last major Australian ground operation of the Second World War at Balikpapan. The Last Post Ceremony at the Australian War Memorial is a truly memorable experience, and we are pleased that people will be able to experience it in person again,” he added.  

The Last Post Ceremony will also be streamed live on the Memorial’s Facebook and YouTube pages.

Mr Anderson said that the Memorial has remained active, despite temporarily closing its doors, finding other ways to share the stories of the Australian experience of war and military service and to engage with people over the past few months.

“The Anzac Day 2020 commemorative service, broadcast live by the ABC, was watched by Australians in living rooms and driveways across the country,” he said.

“Our online Museum At Home has also brought together digital interactive experiences, an award-winning podcast series and online exhibitions and programs for schools, students and the general public. We will continue to build on these resources to ensure the Memorial remains accessible to as many people as possible.

“The Memorial is where we honour, we learn and we heal.”

Visitors will need to book free, timed tickets to visit the Memorial's Commemorative Area and galleries in order to ensure social distancing can be properly maintained. Separate free, timed entry tickets to visit Anzac Hall and attend the Last Post Ceremony are also available.

Tickets can be booked through the Memorial’s website at www.awm.gov.au/visit.

Members of the public are able to visit the Memorial's grounds, including the Sculpture Garden, outdoor exhibits and Poppy's Café, without a ticket.