Anzac Square Water Ingress Remediation project

Brisbane City Council is undertaking remediation works on the Anzac Square memorial site. The works are required to protect the site from further water damage due to the porous nature of the historic sandstone.

About the project

Anzac Square is the heritage-listed State War Memorial of Queensland, dedicated to those who served their country in conflict and in peace. The Square was opened in 1930 and has undergone extensive works over the past decade to maintain, restore and protect the memorial to ensure its longevity for future generations to come.

Council conducted investigation works in 2021 to trace the source of water leaks identified in areas after heavy rainfall events, including the memorial galleries and staff areas located underneath the main staircase.

The investigation found that leaks had increased due to movement of the building, caused by natural changes in temperatures during the year. This has caused cracks and deterioration in the grout between the stonework in some areas.

Project details

The Anzac Square Water Ingress Remediation project will include:

• using a new flexible grout to fill gaps in the sandstone walls
• replacing grout on the sandstone steps and granite staircase to the Anzac cenotaph monument
• addressing known water leaks under the western elevated walkway at the entry into the WWI Memorial Gallery.

Construction details

Remediation work is anticipated to start in September 2022 and be completed by late October 2022, subject to weather and site conditions. Works will be undertaken Monday to Friday between the hours of 6.30am to 6.30pm. Council is committed to keeping the community informed of construction in their area and will provide advance notification of any out of hours or weekend activities.

The memorial will remain open with some areas fenced off for safety. Pedestrian access between Anzac Square parkland and Ann St will be maintained.

Local residents and businesses in close proximity to the site can expect increased noise, truck movements, vibration and dust during this time. Signage will be in place to assist pedestrians to navigate temporary closures.

We appreciate your patience while Council completes these important works to ensure the integrity of this historical site.

Memorial Galleries

The WWI, WWII and post-WWII memorial galleries will remain open to the public while works are underway. The galleries are open Sunday to Friday 10am–4pm.

Admission is free. More details can be found on the State Library of Queensland’s website. 

More information

If you have any questions about the project, you can:

• phone the project team on 1800 884 681 during business hours
• phone Council on 07 3403 8888 outside of business hours
• email the project team
• write to:
  Anzac Square Water Ingress Remediation project
  City Projects Office
  Brisbane City Council
  GPO Box 1434
  Brisbane Qld 4001.