Since its establishment during the First World War, the Australian War Memorial has relied on the generosity of Australians to preserve objects that encapsulate the nation’s wartime experiences. The Memorial’s collection, now consisting of millions of items, plays a vital role in narrating Australia’s war history to future generations.
However, due to acquisition policies, the Memorial cannot accept all items offered for donation. Curators meticulously assess donations based on various factors like relevance to collection development and available resources. The volume of donations often leads to delays in processing the material.
Individuals interested in donating items are advised to follow guidelines provided by the Memorial’s Acquisitions team and complete the online donation form only upon instruction. The form includes essential details such as item description, ownership confirmation, and relevance to the Memorial’s collection.
The Memorial has specific collecting priorities, focusing on items with significant stories or connections to people and events. Collection areas of interest include women’s involvement in conflicts, experiences of the Korean War, and Indigenous military service, among others.
Not all items are accepted, and those declined are returned to the donor. Accepted items undergo assessment and are securely stored according to the Memorial’s preservation policies. Donors and their families are welcome to view donated items by appointment.
The Memorial does not provide copies of original material upon donation. Items for sale are subject to the same assessment criteria as donations. Donors are encouraged to transfer copyright to the Memorial when applicable.
For those considering bequeathing items to the Memorial, information on the process and potential taxation benefits is available. The Memorial does not offer valuations but suggests contacting relevant professionals for this service.
In some cases, items are borrowed for specific periods, but permanent loans are not accepted. Donors experiencing difficulties with the online form can contact the Memorial for assistance.
While not all donated items are displayed, the Memorial ensures that each piece contributes to preserving Australia’s military history for current and future generations. The ongoing support of donors continues to enrich the Memorial’s collection, ensuring the nation’s wartime legacy endures.
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