Two young girls add poppies to the National War Memorial's Role of Honour wall

The Australian War Memorial will begin Anzac Day commemorations with the Dawn Service at 5.30am. Image: VisitCanberra

16 April 2024

Here’s everything you need to know if you’re planning on heading to the Australian War Memorial on Anzac Day.

The Anzac Day 2024 commemorative program

On Thursday 25 April, the Australian War Memorial will begin Anzac Day commemorations with the Dawn Service at 5.30am.

Prior to the service, beginning at 4.30am, representatives from the Australian Defence Force will read excerpts from the letters and diaries of Australians who have witnessed the realities of war firsthand.

The Dawn Service is a standing ceremony, with limited seating available exclusively for mobility-impaired visitors.

The RSL ACT Branch Veterans’ March will be held at 9.30am on the Memorial’s new Parade Ground.

No tickets are required, and all are welcome to attend either event.

Free public transport

Free public transport will be available to anyone attending these events. Make sure you ‘Register to ride’ with Transport Canberra.

Register to ride services will depart from various locations across Canberra.

Free buses to the Dawn Service will depart at 4:15 from:

  • Gungahlin
  • Belconnen
  • City
  • Woden
  • Tuggeranong.

Alternatively, a loop shuttle bus will operate from Russell Offices and the Canberra Centre.

The loop shuttle bus from Russell Offices and the Canberra Centre will also be available for the Veterans’ March.

Return services will depart 20 minutes after the ceremonies conclude.

To register, simply choose a location you wish to board the bus and select how many passengers are in your party.

Registration is limited, so get in early to secure your spot.

Free bus and light rail services will be available all day for anyone wearing or displaying service medals. Veterans are requested to register for a ride to the Anzac Day ceremonies.

If you’re planning on catching public transport on Anzac Day, be aware that buses and light rail will be running on a Sunday timetable for the public holiday.


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