February 20, 2014
The Australian War Memorial and BHP Billiton Sustainable Communities are pleased to announce the donation of A$1 million to support the redevelopment of the Memorial’s First World War galleries.
The major redevelopment of the galleries will form a key part of the Memorial’s commemorations for the centenary of the First World War. This significant donation will assist in the integration of state-of-the art technologies in the galleries to enhance and support artefacts, works of art and a range of other exhibition items.
The Memorial’s Director, Dr Brendan Nelson, said the donation from BHP Billiton Sustainable Communities demonstrated a commitment to the Memorial’s commemoration of the centenary of the First World War and the events that shaped our nation.
“This substantial donation from BHP Billiton Sustainable Communities will make a big difference,” he said.
“Partnerships such as this enable us to enhance the significant investment made by the Australian government and the Australian War Memorial in telling our nation’s history in times of war.
“The employees of BHP Billiton have themselves made an extraordinary contribution to Australia’s war effort through the twentieth century. Today, the company is helping to ensure the stories of our first ANZACs continue to be told for a new generation of Australians.”
BHP Billiton Chief Executive Officer Andrew Mackenzie said BHP Billiton Sustainable Communities was proud to support The Australian War Memorial and help establish a new First World War exhibition.
“Throughout our history we have always maintained strong roots in Australia, including substantial industrial contributions to both the First and Second World Wars,” he said.
“We contribute to the Australian economy through payments to shareholders, employment and the provision of taxes and royalties, and we are proud to make this contribution to recognise Australia’s past war efforts.
“I am pleased the new galleries will use state-of-the art technologies to ensure the story of Australia’s role in the First World War, and its impact on Australian society, continues to be told for generations to come.”
BHP Billiton Sustainable Communities is a UK-based charity established by BHP Billiton as part of its community investment programs.
“The redeveloped First World War galleries will captivate visitors and leave them with a deep sense of pride in what was achieved, informed by a clear understanding of the cost,” Dr Nelson said.