Commemorative Area

Stepping through the front entrance to the Memorial, your attention is immediately captured by the Commemorative Courtyard.

Roll of Honour

The Roll of Honour contains the names of over 103,000 members of the Australian armed forces who have died during or as a result of war service.

Hall of Memory

The Hall of Memory, set above the Pool of Reflection, is the heart of the Australian War Memorial. It can only be reached by walking past the names of the more than 103,000 who have given their lives in the service of this country.

Tomb of the Unknown Australian soldier

Located in the Hall of Memory, the tomb lies directly beneath the dome, where the souls of the dead are shown ascending to heaven. The tomb is covered with a slab of red marble inscribed with gilded lettering, colours that subtly mirror those of the dome.

The Dioramas

Counted among the greatest treasures of the Memorial, the First World War dioramas were constructed in the 1920s: two new Korean dioramas were completed in 2007. Originally built to assist Australians to understand the devastation and danger of battle, the Dioramas are still a stand out feature of the Memorial experience.

Hall of Valour

Amid great battles and the movements of armies, the exploits of courageous individuals have always provided inspiration. The Hall of Valour recognises the deeds of ordinary Australians under the extraordinary conditions of war.

Sculpture Garden

The Memorial opened its Sculpture Garden in January 1999. The Garden is located to the west of the main building and offers a place for quiet contemplation of the sacrifice of the many Australians who have died in war.

Highlight Audio Tour

The highlights audio tour features a 60-minute tour of the First World War, Second World War and Hall of Valour galleries as well as an optional 30-minute tour of the Conflicts 1945 to Today gallery. It is available in multiple languages (English, Mandarin and Hindi) and also includes an Auslan mode for visitors who are hearing impaired.

Acknowledgement of Traditional Custodians

The Australian War Memorial acknowledges the traditional custodians of country throughout Australia. We recognise their continuing connection to land, sea and waters. We pay our respects to elders past and present.