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Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester has announced the appointment of Wayne Hitches as executive project director for the Australian War Memorial’s (AWM) nine-year redevelopment project.
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Hitches has three decades of experience in management and delivery of "complex design and construction, and a track-record of success with major multimillion-dollar projects".
“Mr Hitches has the knowledge and skills to ensure this redevelopment is a success, with know-how of the full life cycle of significant public works — from design, construction, commissioning, handover to the start of operations,” Minister Chester said.
“The Australian War Memorial is a sacred cultural institution of international standing and aside from ad hoc additions to the original building, the memorial has not seen a major precinct-wide redevelopment since it first opened its doors in 1941. This redevelopment will ensure that the stories and the actions of a whole new generation of service men and women can be told.
“I look forward to working with Mr Hitches to deliver this important project of national significance.”
Hitches comes to the AWM from Lendlease, where he most recently held the position of general manager of operations, public domain, remediation and basement delivery at Barangaroo Stage 1B.
He will start his new position on 8 April 2019.
“The redevelopment project is the most significant generational expansion to the memorial since it opened in 1941. Almost all of these additional gallery spaces will be dedicated to telling the stories of what young Australians have given for our country in war and peace over the past 30 years,” AWM director Dr Brendan Nelson said.
“Mr Hitches comes very highly credentialed and will be welcomed at the memorial with the full support and dedication of the staff and council. We look forward to Mr Hitches leading the project team. He knows the responsibility we have to deliver for veterans, their families and the Australian people.”
