A general view of Anzac Hall at the Australian War Memorial Museum n Canberra, Australia on April 16, 2026. Wendell Teodoro/Getty Images
The Australian War Memorial (AWM) says it respects the views of those who wanted to hear the national anthem at the official opening for its refurbished Anzac Hall and Atrium.
AWM’s stance comes after Opposition Leader Angus Taylor and several other politicians questioned why the national anthem was not played at the event despite an Indigenous Welcome to Country being performed.
On June 23, politicians and military service men and women attended the opening of the $550 million refurbishment, but some came away wondering why the anthem wasn’t a part of it.
“It should have been (played). It really should have been,” Taylor told Sydney’s Radio 2GB.
One Nation Senator Tyron Whitten, who was present, claimed the Welcome to Country ceremony went for around 15 minutes.
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United Australia Party Senator Ralph Babet praised the memorial, calling it “magnificent” and a fitting tribute to those who’ve served.
“What should have been a solemn and unifying occasion quickly descended into farce,” he said.
“Those gathered to honour our war dead were forced to endure a Welcome to Country that seemed to go on forever. It felt to be around 15 minutes long.
“His monologue on the rightness of Indigenous culture went on and on and on.”
An AWM spokesperson told The Epoch Times that the anthem is performed every evening at the memorial’s Last Post Ceremony, meaning it was played prior to the event but before guests had arrived.
“We understand that some would have preferred the Australian National Anthem to have been included and we respect those views,” the spokesperson said.
“The official opening event for Anzac Hall and Atrium, included a Welcome to Country, musical performances, speeches and curator-led tours.
Refurbished Exhibits
Visitors can now visit three new galleries that exhibit Australia’s most recent engagements in Afghanistan, peacekeeping duties, and the Middle East.
The new space also houses reimagined displays from the Second World War.
The Director of the Australian War Memorial Matt Anderson highlighted the commitment of the 1,948 workers, which included more than 257 apprentices.
“More than 100 veterans were part of this development project. They have been here from the beginning and from the ground up.” he said.
