in Canberra, ACT, Australia
Australian War Memorial
Powerful national memorial and world-class museum honoring Australian military history and sacrifice. Explore extensive exhibitions, aircraft displays, and moving commemorative areas.
The Australian War Memorial occupies a prominent position at the northern end of ANZAC Parade in Campbell, Canberra, with the memorial building facing directly down the boulevard toward Parliament House. Opened in 1941, the memorial was conceived as both a museum and a national shrine — its Byzantine-influenced dome and classical sandstone facade housing the Hall of Memory at the building's heart, where the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier rests beneath a 2 million-piece mosaic ceiling made from Australian stones and designed by Sydney artist Leonard French.
The collection spans three main wings arranged around the Commemorative Courtyard, where the Pool of Reflection and Eternal Flame are maintained year-round. The ANZAC Hall and its annex contain large military technology displayed at full scale: an Avro Lancaster bomber, a Japanese midget submarine recovered from Sydney Harbour in 1942, a Bristol Beaufort bomber, and armoured vehicles including a Leopard tank and a Centurion. The First World War galleries trace the Gallipoli campaign and the Western Front in detail, using personal artefacts, letters, field diaries, and large-format dioramas to convey individual experience alongside strategic context. The Second World War galleries examine the Pacific campaign, the fall of Singapore, Kokoda, and the bombing of Darwin. Subsequent wings address Korea, Vietnam, and recent deployments to Afghanistan and the Middle East.
The Last Post Ceremony takes place daily at 4:55 PM in the Commemorative Courtyard (5:00 PM in summer). The short ceremony names and honours an individual who served in the Australian Defence Force, read aloud to those gathered, accompanied by a bugler. The ceremony is free to attend, takes approximately 20 minutes, and is among the most affecting public commemorations in Australia. Arriving 15 minutes early secures a position near the Pool of Reflection.
Entry to the memorial is free. Guided tours depart daily from the entrance foyer at set times and last approximately 90 minutes. Audio guides are available for self-guided exploration. A full visit warrants 3–4 hours; the Hall of Memory, WWI galleries, and technology displays can be covered in 2 hours. Pre-booking timed entry is not required but is advisable during peak school holiday periods when the galleries can become congested by mid-morning.
Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily
Best for: history enthusiasts, families, veterans, education seekers
Visit / Book / Contact
Location
Treloar Crescent, Campbell ACT 2612
-35.2804, 149.1493 — View on map
Highlights
- Hall of Memory housing the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier beneath a 2 million-piece mosaic ceiling of Australian stones
- Last Post Ceremony at 4:55 PM daily in the Commemorative Courtyard — one of Canberra's most moving public commemorations
- World-class military technology collection including a Lancaster bomber, Japanese midget submarine, and Leopard tank at full scale
- First World War galleries with original personal artefacts, field diaries, and large-format dioramas of Gallipoli and the Western Front
- ANZAC Hall large-item display featuring aircraft and naval vessels in one of Australia's most impressive museum spaces
Tips
- Book timed entry online in advance
- Attend Last Post Ceremony daily at 4:50 PM
- Aircraft and large technology displays are exceptional
FAQ
How long does a visit to the Australian War Memorial take?
The full collection warrants 3–4 hours. The most significant areas — Hall of Memory, WWI galleries, and ANZAC Hall technology display — can be covered in about 2 hours. The Last Post Ceremony adds 20 minutes if timed to coincide with the 4:55 PM daily event.
Is the Australian War Memorial suitable for children?
Yes, though the subject matter is sobering. Many children are engaged by the aircraft, armoured vehicles, and large technology in ANZAC Hall. The memorial offers dedicated family guides and school programs. Some galleries depicting casualties may not be appropriate for very young children.
Is photography allowed inside the memorial?
Photography for personal use is permitted throughout most of the memorial including the Hall of Memory and technology galleries. Flash photography and tripods are restricted in some areas. The Last Post Ceremony may be photographed respectfully from the courtyard.
Accessibility
The Australian War Memorial is fully accessible. All gallery levels are connected by lifts and ramps, and the entire site is navigable by wheelchair throughout. Accessible parking is available in the forecourt car park. Hearing loops and tactile guides are available — inquire at the visitor services desk on arrival.
When to visit
Weekday mornings from 10 AM to noon are the quietest visiting periods. School holiday periods bring large student groups, making galleries more congested by mid-morning. The Last Post Ceremony on weekdays typically draws smaller, more intimate gatherings than the weekend ceremonies.