Victim and survivors have today helped to break ground on the National Memorial for Victims and Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse in Canberra.
The National Memorial will provide victims and survivors a permanent place of remembrance, reflection, truth, healing and hope. It is also intended to raise community awareness of historical and contemporary institutional child sexual abuse in Australia.
Located on the Acton Peninsula in Canberra, the site was chosen for its peaceful surroundings, accessibility and prominence within the nation's capital.
Minister for Social Services Tanya Plibersek turned the first sod for the memorial today, alongside Member for Canberra Alicia Payne and members of the National Memorial Advisory Group.
Landscaping works are scheduled to begin after the sod-turning, with the National Memorial expected to be completed in 2027.
The National Memorial's design was informed by advice from the National Memorial Advisory Group, an important body of survivors, their families, advocates, and other relevant experts.
The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse recommended a national memorial to provide a lasting place of recognition, remembrance and reflection for victims and survivors of child sexual abuse in institutional settings.
Support is available 24/7 for anyone who is experiencing emotional distress on the National Redress Scheme website.
