A New Anzac is an observational four-part documentary chronicling the monumental $500 million redevelopment of the Australian War Memorial (AWM). The series follows two main threads: the first being the logistical and engineering challenge of the construction build itself, which successfully integrates modern architecture with the existing national landmark. The second thread highlights the dedicated work of the AWM's curators, historians, and staff, who take pride in the AWM’s unique role as a memorial, museum, and archive. 

This behind-the-scenes narrative reveals the intellectual and emotional labour involved in curating the complex and often sensitive material of modern conflict. The passionate AWM staff work tirelessly to conserve, research, archive, and manage every facet of the institution, all whilst remaining open to the public during this busy time. The unseen planning it takes to smoothly stage significant events such as Anzac Day and Remembrance Day are brought to light, while capturing the daily decisions and ethical considerations faced by the Memorial's leadership and project teams. This prompts questions about how to acknowledge complex aspects of Australia’s contemporary conflict history, which the AWM now incorporates into its galleries.   

The documentary features a diverse range of Australian veterans from all three armed service branches of the Australian Defence Force; the Australian Army, the Royal Australian Navy, and the Royal Australian Air Force. A New Anzac explores the crucial roles veterans played in international peacekeeping operations, Australia’s extensive three-decade involvement in the Middle East, and the enduring legacy of the conflict in Afghanistan. The series tracks the careful process of decommissioning existing galleries, designing new exhibition spaces, and the meticulous acquisition, restoration and preparation of objects for display. This includes the relocation and installation of Large Technology Objects (LTOs) such as the Chinook Helicopter and an F/A-18 Hornet aircraft into the new Anzac Hall.  

Alongside the AWM staff, contemporary veterans such as the ‘Bushmaster Debbie’ crew, reflect on ideas of sacrifice, service, and the significance of seeing their stories commemorated. In doing so, the series incorporates stories from veterans’ families, and civilians touched by their efforts, such as Rwandan Genocide survivor Frida Umuhoza. With a significant portion of Australia's population born overseas, including many refugees from conflict-affected areas, the series delves into the complexities of contextualising these experiences within a diverse society. The staff, veterans, and volunteers hope the new exhibition spaces will give servicepeople a chance to reflect on what they have encountered, and provide impetus for discussion, both within their families and wider society, for generations to come.