STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Mr McCORMACK (Riverina) (16:42): Much has been made of the fact that the national anthem was not played at the official opening of the new Anzac Hall, an atrium to the Australian War Memorial, on Tuesday last week. Should it have been? Well, of course it should have been.

But let's not let this overshadow what was a magnificent event for a mighty institution, one of this nation's finest. I want to pay special tribute to Lieutenant Gerard Pratt of the Royal Australian Navy, from Illabo in the Riverina, who emceed what was a real showcase, as well as the Australian War Memorial director, Matt Anderson PSM. Mr Anderson highlighted the commitment and the hard work of 1,948 workers, who included more than 257 apprentices who were inducted into Anzac Hall.

Visitors can now enjoy and visit three major new galleries on modern conflicts: Afghanistan, peacekeeping and the Middle East. This isn't a celebration of sorts; this is a commemoration. It's an important commemoration, because those conflicts should be honoured, acknowledged and recognised in that sacred place, in that special place.

The new space also houses dynamic displays from the Second World War, including G for George in Bomber Command, Milne Bay and Sydney under attack, where the Japanese minisubs are on display. It's a mighty exhibition, and everyone should take their children and grandchildren to see it.