Consultation on the National Memorial for Victims and Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse

The Australian Government has commenced a public consultation on the National Memorial for Victims and Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse (National Memorial) via an online survey.

The survey opened at 9:00am on Monday 2 November 2020 and will close at 11:59pm on Sunday 22 November 2020.

The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse (Royal Commission) recommended the Government commission a national memorial in Canberra for people with lived experience of child sexual abuse in institutional contexts. The Government accepted this recommendation to recognise the national significance of institutional child sexual abuse and its impact on people with lived experience, their families, and communities. 

The Royal Commission also recommended that people with lived experience be consulted on the memorial design. This survey forms part of the Government’s commitment to consult widely with people with lived experience of institutional and other forms of child sexual abuse, their families, and advocates on the National Memorial. Other stakeholders such as peak bodies, sector organisations, and people interested in public memorials are also encouraged to participate.

The department is working with a National Memorial Advisory Group (Advisory Group), appointed by the Minister for Families and Social Services, the Hon Anne Ruston MP. The Advisory Group includes sector representatives with lived experience and experts who will advise on key aspects of the memorial’s design, including the location and key attributes. Findings from the survey will be provided to the Advisory Group to assist them in their deliberations and decision-making.

Inquiries can be direct to the National Memorial Team via RCMemorial@dss.gov.au.