Australian War Memorial Updates Ben Roberts-Smith Display After Murder Charges

The Australian War Memorial has updated a display dedicated to former soldier Ben Roberts-Smith following his arrest on allegations of war crimes. Mr. Roberts-Smith was charged with five counts of the war crime of murder on Tuesday.

Display Alterations

The changes are part of the memorial's ongoing $500 million redevelopment. Director Matt Anderson stated that the panel displayed alongside a uniform worn by Mr. Roberts-Smith during his service was amended to reflect the current facts.

Mr. Anderson emphasized the memorial's commitment to providing updated information throughout the legal process and to upholding the presumption of innocence.

The updated panel now includes the statement: "In April 2026, Roberts-Smith was charged with five counts of the war crime of murder. The legal process is ongoing." Mr. Roberts-Smith's uniform and medals remain on display.

Mr. Anderson explained that the memorial consistently updates the panel to keep the public informed and will present the full truth when it becomes known. He clarified that Mr. Roberts-Smith's inclusion in the Hall of Valour, alongside other Victoria Cross recipients, is based on his actions in Afghanistan in 2010.

Memorial Redevelopment Overview

The memorial also unveiled new sections as part of its refurbishment, including Anzac Hall, an expanded area for the World War II bomber G for George and Bomber Command, and displays detailing Australia's peacekeeping efforts.

The $500 million expansion has drawn criticism since its plans were revealed in 2020, with concerns about its cost and potential deviation from the memorial's original purpose of solemn reflection. The Australian War Memorial asserts that the redevelopment allows for a greater emphasis on modern veterans, including women and individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. According to Mr. Anderson, the stories of 1,200 individuals are being told for the first time.

Project executive director Will Hitches noted the expansion added approximately 7,000 square meters of gallery space. He described the use of stone from the same quarry as the main building, cut differently to distinguish new construction.

Mr. Hitches stated that the $500 million cost represented "extraordinary value for money."

The overall refurbishment is expected to conclude in 2028.

New Exhibitions

• G for George Bomber: The section dedicated to the G for George bomber has been enhanced to include more narratives about Australians involved in the war effort. The aircraft completed 89 bombing missions during World War II. Historian and curator Lachlan Grant explained that while the bomber was considered "lucky," it sustained damage on multiple occasions. New content, accounting for about 70 percent of the exhibition, includes a tribute to Jean Starling, who volunteered for the Women's Auxiliary Air Force as a specialist photographic interpreter.

• Cambodian Civil War: A new focus highlights Australia's role in the Middle East and South-East Asia. Sokha Sras, an advisor, ensured historical accuracy and cultural sensitivity for a section on the Cambodian civil war and the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s. The display features items from that period, representing the suffering experienced by millions of Cambodians. Ms. Sras expressed appreciation for the exhibition giving a voice to her people's experiences.

A gallery focusing on Australia's role in Afghanistan is scheduled to open soon.