The transformation of the Australian War Memorial has enhanced two exclusive experiences offered through Cultural Attractions of Australia. Incorporating newly redeveloped spaces and enhanced behind-the-scenes access, these expert-led experiences provide deeper insight into the Memorial’s collection, revealing the stories of service, sacrifice, and remembrance behind more than 103,000 names on the Australian Roll of Honour.
The sleek, modern design of the Anzac Hall galleries occupying 7,000 square metres over two levels, connect defining moments from World War One and World War Two with Australia’s modern day history of service in the Middle East, Afghanistan and peacekeeping operations. The new galleries invite visitors to discover the human experiences behind conflict, and the way those experiences continue to shape today’s Australia.
“The Australian War Memorial has a mission unlike any other cultural institution in the country”, highlighted Matt Anderson, Director. “We comprise three important themes: a shrine, an archive and a museum. The stories entrusted to us are not static, they evolve. Dozens of veterans contributed almost 30,000 hours of work to this project. Some even placed their unit’s challenge coins into the foundations of the new Theatre and Parade Ground. Their service is literally embedded in this sacred place.” A significant contribution also included that of First Nations Australians and five Australian Indigenous businesses.
The transformation and expansion of the Australian War Memorial reflects a deep commitment to share the many stories that shape this country’s experience of conflict and service. Within the Galleries, over 1,200 stories are being told with over 750 new stories being told about these modern conflicts. Items displayed include 3,600 objects, 33 large technology objects, 134 AV/multimedia experiences including over 6,000 photographs, film and sound collection items with over 100,000 words written for 2,200 labels. Stand-out items in the collections are a Hornet, moved from the AWM’s storage facility in Mitchell to the museum galleries and a 23-tonne HMAS Sydney gun, the heaviest object installed.
“Seeing more than 76,000 visitors come through the Memorial in less than two weeks highlights just how engaged people are with our stories,” said Sarah Hitchcock, Head, Commemoration and Visitor Engagement. “It is a reminder that our redevelopment is not just about new galleries but creating experiences that resonate with Australians and international visitors alike.”
Cultural Attractions of Australia and the Australian War Memorial offer two curated, behind-the-scenes experiences led by expert guides that reveal many of the personal stories woven throughout the collection overall. These immersive journeys encourage visitors to look beyond the objects and names and connect more closely with the people, perspectives and experiences behind them.
A Place to Remember is a fascinating 90-minute private tour of the Australian War Memorial. This takes in the Commemorative Courtyard including the Roll of Honour tribute with more than 103,000 names interspersed with bright red poppies, where you learn of their stories and sacrifice. Continuing on to the museum galleries including the new Anzac Hall, an expert guide shines a light on stories of bravery, devotion and friendship reflected in the exhibitions and collections. Following, there is the option of a wreath laying experience in remembrance.
This 90-minute tour is available daily 10.30am and 3.00pm, a minimum 2/15 guests, $80 per person. For more details or to book click here
The Soul of the Nation, is a longer, engaging private tour of the Australian War Memorial’s Commemorative Courtyard, where once more you view the Roll of Honour with more than 103,000 names. You also take in the moving atmosphere of the Hall of Memory where you may place a poppy on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Following, you have special access to the museum galleries with an expert guide taking you through highlights of the collections. As a further aspect to the experience, an AWM curator hosts a 30-minute viewing of the collection including rare letters, photographs, diaries, many more than a century old. As well, you are shown iconic and rarely seen artworks by leading Australian artists. This tour offers the option of a lunch at Poppy’s Café and if you wish attending the Last Post Ceremony and wreath laying experience.
This tour of around 150 minutes is available daily from 10am for 2/6 guests, $400 per person week day, $500 per person weekends and public holidays. For more details or to book click here
Blackout dates for both tours: Anzac Day 25 April, Remembrance Day 11 November, Christmas Day 25 December (closed). Additional blackout dates: 22 December – 11 January 2026; 24 December – 10 January 2027.
High-res images are here. Credit: Cultural Attractions of Australia.
