The Australian War Memorial has announced it won’t reopen its doors until 1 July, despite many other tourist attractions in the ACT jumping to open in time for the Reconciliation Day long weekend, 30 May – 1 June.
The Memorial announced it would be easing back into its reopening, as visitors will be asked to book their free visits in dedicated time slots.
Timed tickets will also be available for the Memorial’s daily Last Post ceremony.
AWM Director Matt Anderson said the popular tourist venue was excited to welcome visitors back, although in a different format.
“It won’t be the same, but we ask that people continue to be patient and appreciate that we are working to provide the best possible visitor experience under the current circumstances,” he said.
“Our focus is on opening the Memorial to visitors again, and to do it in a way that minimises the risk to the public, including staff.”
The Memorial announced they would be taking up several safety measures for both staff and visitors, including moving all foot traffic in one direction through the museum, increasing staff numbers to monitor visitors and only allowing cashless transactions.
Specific details of the venue’s opening are still being confirmed, as booking details are expected to be available within the coming weeks.
Mr Anderson said he was looking forward to welcoming the general public back into the War Memorial and ensuring the safety of everyone involved.
“To be able to have visitors return is a very welcome development for the staff, management and Council of the Australian War Memorial. It is to the credit of frontline health workers, community leaders and the general public that we are able to get to this point,” he said.
“I can’t wait to personally welcome visitors and am keen for the Memorial to get back to what it does best – offering a rich and emotive museum experience which honours the commitment and service of those who have worn, and continue to wear, an Australian Defence Force uniform.”
