The Albanese Labor Government, working together with victims and survivors, has selected the final design for the National Memorial for Victims and Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse.
The chosen design embodies protection, strength, and enduring connections, and offers a space for healing and reflection shaped by the voices of victims and survivors.
This important step towards a completed National Memorial comes on National Survivors' Day, which recognises and commemorates the courage and journeys of survivors of institutional child sexual abuse and their supporters across Australia.
The new design was selected through a two-stage procurement process managed by the National Capital Authority. The process was informed by advice from the National Memorial Advisory Group, an important body comprised of survivors and community leaders.
The National Capital Authority will manage SUPERSENSE STUDIO to deliver this critical project with construction to commence next year.
The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse recommended a national memorial to help survivors who felt that remembering was one way to help prevent child sexual abuse and protect children in the future.
Support is available 24/7 for anyone who is experiencing emotional distress on the National Redress Scheme website.
(link is external)Renders of the National Memorial are available here.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Social Services, Tanya Plibersek:
"We know victims and survivors have been waiting a long time for the construction of this Memorial.
"Today, on National Survivors' Day, we recognise the pain, suffering, and trauma experienced by victims and survivors, and the long-term impacts this has on lives and families.
"We continue to listen to - and acknowledge - all those who have experienced institutional child sexual abuse.
"This new design brings us one step closer to creating a place of remembrance, reflection, truth, healing, and hope."
Quotes attributable to Senator for the ACT, Katy Gallagher:
"The establishment of the National Memorial here in Canberra is a powerful recognition of the courage and resilience of victims and survivors of institutional child sexual abuse.
"This memorial will offer a dedicated space for reflection, healing, and hope, a permanent reminder of our commitment to listening, learning, and ensuring these experiences are never forgotten."
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain:
"The Government is proud to be delivering this project of National significance in the Canberra, and establishing a memorial on the national estate that has a strong meaning to those it represents.
"With this project we invite survivors and their families to share a space where they can experience a moment of personal peace and shared understanding."
Quotes attributable to Member for Canberra, Alicia Payne:
"This memorial being in the Nation's capital is significant as a place for all Australians to reflect on what this space means for so many victims and survivors.
"I'm proud to be part of a Government that is committed to listening to victims and survivors of institutional child sexual abuse, and supporting them through their healing journey."
