Honouring Sacrifice and Remembering Heroes: Why You Should Visit the Australian War Memorial

Nestled in the heart of Canberra, the Australian War Memorial is a solemn testament to the nation's rich military history and the sacrifices made by countless individuals who have served in its defence. Visiting this iconic institution is not just an opportunity; it's a powerful and moving experience that every Australian and anyone interested in history and gratitude should undertake.

Preserving Our Heritage: The Australian War Memorial is a repository of Australia's military heritage, housing an extensive collection of artifacts, documents, and artworks that tell the compelling story of the nation's involvement in conflicts throughout history. From World War I to the present day, the memorial offers a comprehensive and insightful look into Australian servicemen and women's challenges, triumphs, and sacrifices.

Honouring the Fallen: The heart of the memorial is the commemorative area, where the Roll of Honour bears the names of over 102,000 Australians who have given their lives in service to their country. As you walk through this hallowed space, you can't help but feel the weight of history and the profound sense of loss. It's a place of reflection and remembrance, reminding us of the immense sacrifices made by generations past.

The Daily Last Post Ceremony: One of the most poignant experiences at the Australian War Memorial is attending the daily Last Post Ceremony. Held at 4:55 pm, this solemn ritual is a tribute to the fallen and a reminder of the human cost of war. The ceremony, with its haunting bugle call, personal stories, and the laying of wreaths, is a profoundly moving event that resonates with visitors from all walks of life.

Education and Inspiration: Beyond its role as a memorial, this institution is also a centre for education and inspiration. The memorial hosts exhibitions, talks, and educational programs that engage visitors of all ages. It's a place to learn, to question, and to understand the complexities of war and its impact on our world.

A Timeless Reminder: Visiting the Australian War Memorial is not just about understanding the past; it's about acknowledging the present and shaping the future. It's a place to pay respects, connect with the stories of individuals who have shown incredible courage, and reaffirm our commitment to peace.

Visiting the Australian War Memorial is not merely a tourist attraction; it's a profound and emotionally charged experience. It's an opportunity to honour the sacrifice of those who have served and to gain a deeper appreciation for the values of freedom and democracy they defended. So, whether you're a history enthusiast, a patriot, or someone seeking a humbling and moving encounter with the past, the Australian War Memorial awaits with its doors open from 10 am to 5 pm daily (except Christmas Day). Don't miss the chance to pay your respects and connect with Australia's military legacy.

Book your ticket

You will need a ticket to visit the Australian War Memorial, and to attend the daily Last Post Ceremony.

Entry is free, however, there are several tours on that you might be interested in joining.

It is encouraged you register for a ticket in advance. Tickets may be made available at the Memorial entry, subject to capacity.
For more information call (02) 6243 4370.

The video below highlights some of the new features to be added to the Australian War Memorial as part of the redevelopment project.

Regular visitors will notice that we have made changes to our operations to ensure the health and safety of visitors, staff, and volunteers. You will need a ticket to visit the Australian War Memorial. Visitors over the age of 16 years are required to check in prior to entry using the Check IN CBR app. The video below highlights some of the new features to be added to the Australian War Memorial as part of the redevelopment project.

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