ANU turns 75

The Australian National University (ANU) was established by an Act of the Federal Parliament in 1946. Its founding mission was to be of enduring significance in the post-war life of the nation, to support the development of national unity and identity, to improve Australia’s understanding of itself and its neighbours, and to contribute to economic development and social cohesion.

The ANU has shaped modern Australia ever since, and grown into a preeminent teaching and research institution.

On 1 August 2021, the ANU celebrated its 75th anniversary.

Your Stories

As part of our celebrations, the University is creating a digital resource of stories and memories from our staff, students, alumni, supporters and friends. Help us preserve our history and celebrate our legacy by sharing your favourite ANU moment. Whether it’s a night out at the Uni Bar, a favourite teacher, a sporting triumph, or marching at a ‘demo’, we’d like to hear about it. Use this form to submit a photo or video.

Note: your submission may be published on the University’s website or used on social media.

Gallery

1963

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and ANU Chancellor, John Cockcroft, at the opening of the R.G. Menzies Building

1964

A builder surveying the site for the Burton and Garran Halls

1967

H.C. Coombs Building

1972

Students at a graduation ball, Burgmann College

1974

'The Computer Age' arrives at the Chifley Library. Dorothy Enderby, Reader Services Librarian and Milton Simms, University Librarian

1976

Ann Curthoys, Coordinator of the ANU's first course in Women's Studies

1976

The ANU, Acton campus

1979

ANU Women's Eight during a practice session on Sullivan's Creek

1980

The ANU campus, taken from Black Mountain

1986

Bio-anthropologist Colin Groves

1987

The Body Sliding Contest, held as part of Bush Week activities

1988

ANU Club for Women spinning group in the Molly Huxley Room, University House. L to R: Marie Hyde, Netta McLaren (Club President), Thilly Barton, Lynda Roy, Helen Daniel.

1996

Director of Facilities and Services, Don Hardman, with the newly installed 'traffic calming' balls near the ANU Sports Union.

2000

Nelson Mandela, the former President of South Africa, received an Honorary Doctorate of Law from the ANU. Here, he talks to ANU student Mark King (R). Vice-Chancellor Deane Terrell is in the background, centre.

2003

The 74-inch telescope at Mt Stromlo after the 2003 bushfires.

2004

Former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Western Australia, Fay Gale (L), Fenner School academic, Richard Baker (C), and ANU Alumni Lynette Liddle (R), at the launch of the Elspeth Young Bequest at the Jabal Centre.

2004

(L to R) Former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Western Australia, Fay Gale (L), Fenner School academic, Richard Baker (C), and ANU Alumni Lynette Liddle (R), at the launch of the Elspeth Young Bequest at the Jabal Centre, 2004. (ANU Photography)