Joint media release - Securing the future of the Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway

The Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway (KTMW) in Sydney will be enjoyed by tourists and visitors for years to come, with a grant formally awarded to help secure its future.

KTMW Limited will receive $744,000 over a four-year period to contribute to the Walkway’s operations and maintenance activities and support the development of a financially sustainable operating model.

The walkway opened in 1996 and is a tribute to those who served in the Papua New Guinea and Kokoda Track campaigns between 1942 and 1943. Thousands of visitors, young and old, travel the 800-metre path between Rhodes train station and Concord Repatriation General Hospital each year in shared reflection and remembrance.

It features a rainforest scene simulating the conditions in Papua New Guinea as well as a memorial centrepiece with sandblasted granite imagery, a memorial rose garden with over 500 memorial plaques and 22 stations highlighting the significance of battles and locations during the campaign. Commemorative services are also hosted there for Anzac Day, Victory in the Pacific Day and Kokoda Day.

Through its education centre and programs, such as free school visitations, the Walkway ensures the many stories of service and sacrifice during the Second World War are not forgotten.

This funding will preserve and maintain the space and help ensure the legacy of those who served will live on and builds on previous funding for maintenance, upkeep and development of a sustainable funding plan, which is now being implemented by KTMW Ltd.

Quotes attributable to Veterans’ Affairs Minister Matt Keogh:

“The Walkway is a living link to the Kokoda Track and Papua New Guinea campaign that can now be enjoyed for years to come thanks to this investment from the Albanese Government.

“That’s great news for the thousands of people young and old who visit every year to learn more about the service and sacrifice of our veterans or to attend Anzac Day commemorations.

“Our investment also preserves the Walkway’s inextricable link with the adjacent Concord Repatriation Hospital, opened in 1941 for the treatment of sick and injured Australian service personnel.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Reid Sally Sitou:

“The Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway is one of the most important places of remembrance in our community, and I’m proud the Albanese Government is helping secure its future.

“The Walkway has helped local residents, students, veterans and visitors reflect on the courage, sacrifice and endurance of those who served in the Kokoda and Papua New Guinea campaigns.

“This funding will help preserve a treasured local landmark, support its ongoing operations, and ensure future generations can continue to learn the stories of those who served.”

ENDS