The National Memorial for Victims and Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse will provide a place for reflection, healing and connection for victims, survivors, families, supporters and the wider community. It will recognise the experiences of those affected by institutional child sexual abuse, and support healing and truth.
A sod-turning ceremony at Acton Peninsula in Canberra on 8 September 2026 marked the start of construction. Minister for Social Services Tanya Plibersek, Assistant Minister for Social Services Ged Kearney and Federal Member for Canberra Alicia Payne, and advocate Christine Foster were among the first to turn the soil at the site.
The ceremony brought together members of the National Memorial Advisory Group, government representatives and construction project partners. Advisory group members, including people with lived experience, advocates and sector leaders, have played an important role in shaping the memorial and continue to guide its development.
The memorial will feature a metal sculpture surrounded by stone formations and native plantings. It was designed by SUPERSENSE Studio. The completed memorial is expected to open in 2027.
We are partnering with the National Capital Authority to deliver the memorial, in response to a recommendation of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.
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