War Memorial Responds to Criticism Over Missing Anthem During Major Opening

2 senators complained of a 15-minute-long Indigenous Welcome to Country ceremony.

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.