Centenary of Anzac: $38 million redevelopment of Hyde Park Anzac Memorial

NSW Premier Mike Baird and Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Victor Dominello today announced a $38 million plan to redevelop the ANZAC Memorial at Hyde Park, which would complete the original 1930 vision for the Memorial.

Mr Baird said the redevelopment included plans to build an Education and Interpretation Centre beneath the ANZAC Memorial, and a water cascade.

“Today, we mark 100 years since the commencement of the First World War and begin the state’s Centenary of Anzac commemorations that will be taking place over the next four years,” Mr Baird said.

“The $38 million redevelopment will be the centrepiece and an enduring legacy of the state’s Centenary of Anzac commemorations.

“When the Memorial was built, the original concept for a cascade water feature wasn’t completed due to budget constraints during the Great Depression of the 1930s.

“The original design included the Pool of Reflection, which was completed in 1934 to the north of the Memorial. A second water feature planned for the southern end of the Memorial extending to Liverpool Street was never realised.

“The cascading water feature was designed to represent a symbol of hope for future generations and it will be wonderful to see this plan completed.

“The NSW Government will make an initial $20 million contribution to the project, which will enhance the Memorial as a tribute to the service and sacrifice made by NSW service men and women,” Mr Baird said.

Mr Dominello said the Education and Interpretation Centre would serve as focal point for future generations of students to learn about the Anzac legacy and Australia’s war history.

“It’s expected that the Centre will connect with the school curriculum, and take students on a journey that will bring history alive,” Mr Dominello said.

“This project reflects the time-honoured commitment we make in the Ode of Remembrance to preserve the legacy of our diggers by remembering their sacrifices every day, at the going down of the sun and in the morning.”

The redevelopment is expected to be completed as Centenary of Anzac commemorations are completed in 2018.