National Memorial for Victims and Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse

About the National Memorial 

The Australian Government is committed to acknowledging the experiences and meeting the needs of victims and survivors of institutional child sexual abuse. A National Memorial for Victims and Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse (the National Memorial) was announced by the Australian Government in the 2020-21 Federal Budget.

The National Memorial will be located in the heart of the nation’s capital, on Canberra’s Acton Peninsula near the National Museum of Australia and the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies.

It will acknowledge the experiences of victims and survivors, honour the lives lost, and recognise the courage of those who fought for justice and those whose voices were not heard. It will also serve as a place of truth, reflection and healing for victims, survivors, their families, supporters, and the broader community.

Importantly, the National Memorial will educate all Australians about the harmful and lasting impacts of institutional child sexual abuse, providing a permanent reminder of our shared responsibility to protect children now and into the future.

The design 

The National Capital Authority led a robust design procurement process. The National Memorial Advisory Group, comprising survivors and community leads, provided advice to ensure the chosen design would resonate with victims and survivors. Independent experts advised on feasibility. 

Created by the SUPERSENSE STUDIO, the design offers an enduring tribute that honours the commemorative intent of the National Memorial. 

Construction of the National Memorial is scheduled to commence in 2026, with completion expected in 2027.

Enquiries about the design procurement and construction of the National Memorial should be directed to the National Capital Authority at RCMemorial@nca.gov.au.

For further information and next steps, read the Frequently Asked Questions.

Thanks to the National Memorial Advisory Group 

We would like to extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to the National Memorial Advisory Group for their continued work and commitment to this project. This group was established to perform a key advisory role to the department and National Capital Authority, to inform and oversee key stages of the memorial’s development to ensure the character and expression of the National Memorial represents the voices of victims and survivors.