War memorial on hunt for new director

The hunt is expected to start soon for a new Australian War Memorial director after Brendan Nelson announced he would step down after seven years at the helm.

The former Liberal leader will leave the memorial at the end of the year, with his tenure drawing lavish praise from Veterans Affairs Minister Darren Chester.

A recruitment process to appoint the new director will start shortly.

Dr Nelson said he was humbled and privileged to have been able to shape the institution.

"In a world (that) is changing so dramatically, what is most important is that we never lose sight of that in which we believe, and the truths by which we live," Dr Nelson said.

"Perhaps above all, I am proud that young servicemen, women and veterans now regard the Australian War Memorial as being their spiritual home as much as those of earlier generations. I think we made a difference."

Mr Chester said the memorial was set up well for the future, though he would have liked to squeeze a couple of more years out of Dr Nelson.

Agreement was reached recently on a $498 million investment to expand the memorial, with a final submission due by the end of the year and major works expected to start in 2020.

In 2018 the Returned and Services League conferred honorary life membership on Dr Nelson for his services to and support of veterans and ex-service organisations.

Former prime minister Tony Abbott has been reported as being in line for a seat on the AWM's board, but Mr Chester dodged a question as to whether he would be considered for the director's role.