Our plans
Our new buildings and spaces will enhance the visitor experience, while protecting the heritage and form of the original iconic outline of the Memorial’s sandstone building façade as it is seen from Anzac Parade.
The sacred heart of the Memorial – including the Commemorative Area, Hall of Memory, and Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier – will not change. The original Commemorative Forecourt, stairs and heritage entrance will also be reinstated as they appear now.
The addition of a new southern entrance will improve visitor access and orientation, with particular consideration given to issues of accessibility and mobility impairment. The original heritage entrance will still be available for those who wish to use it.
New galleries will include quiet places for reflection and improved spaces for education programs, in order to allow greater connection and engagement with stories and objects for all visitors.
A new Research Centre will enhance the experience of research at the Memorial, offering efficient public access to collection and reference materials, and offering visitors welcoming, light-filled spaces.
The new design will improve connections between the main building and new Anzac Hall galleries, as well as improving the visitor experience. Create additional exhibition space, while preserving the heritage and integrity of the main Memorial building.
Australian War Memorial Development Project fly-through – published 18 November 2019. For current designs, please refer to the images below.
Architectural Design
Following the Australian Government’s approval of the Memorial’s Detailed Business Case to develop its galleries, a comprehensive architectural design competition was conducted in 2019.
Entrants were asked to provide design solutions within the approved project budget that managed heritage risks, provided flexible and functional exhibition space, and enhanced the visitor experience. The shortlisted selection of architects had the option to retain the current Anzac Hall in any proposed concept designs.
Four concept designs – one of which included a proposal to expand the current Anzac Hall – were entered in the design competition.
A design jury – comprising of three highly-regarded architects, two senior Memorial staff, and an independent heritage conservation advisor – assessed the submissions.
After careful study, the design submitted by Cox Architecture was selected for the new Anzac Hall and Glazed Link. The design by Scott Carver Architects was selected for the new Southern Entry and Parade Ground works.
Project timeline
2018 Development project announced by the Prime Minister, Hon, Scott Morrison MP
2019 Enabling works begin
2021 Anzac Hall works begin
2021 CEW Bean Building works begin
2021 Southern entrance works begin
2021 Main Building lower level refurbishments begin
2023 Southern entrance external works complete
2024 Anzac Hall and glazed link fitout, southern entrance fitout, CEW Bean Building and Research Centre fitout
2024 Main building lower level galleries fitouts begin
2025 Main building upper level refurbishments begin
2028 Project complete
