Canberra National Memorials Committee

National memorials is an important way to mark the contribution and sacrifice made by extraordinary Australians to their country and to their fellow citizens.

The character of nationally significant areas within the National Capital is the responsibility of the National Capital Authority and it is required to undertake projects for the enhancement and maintenance of the public places in these areas. Public commemorative sites and objects include sculptures, memorials, parks, gardens, tree plantings, fountains, paths, car parks, jetties, signage and lighting.

Specifically, the Authority’s responsibilities in relation to commemorative works are to:

• provide advice to the Minister responsible for the Australian Capital Territory National Land (National Memorials, Territory Divisions and Public Places) Ordinance 2022  (the Ordinance) and secretariat services to the Canberra National Memorials Committee
• provide project management services for agreed commemorative works proposals including the management of design competitions, design development and management of construction
• consider applications for works in Designated Areas (as specified in the National Capital Plan) in accordance with the Australian Capital Territory (Planning and Land Management) Act 1988
• provide asset management services for commemorative works (on land declared to be for the purposes of the National Capital)
• liaise with other Commonwealth and Territory agencies, authorities and relevant stakeholders on matters of mutual concern

The Canberra National Memorials Committee (the CNMC) is empowered by the Australian Capital Territory National Land (National Memorials, Territory Divisions and Public Places) Ordinance 2022, to approve the location and character of national memorials in the ACT. The Ordinance defines the membership and responsibilities of the Committee. For the Guidelines for Commemorative Works in the National Capital, click here. 

Decisions of the Committee are made after consideration of proposals put forward by members of the community. In considering the proposals for memorials, the CNMC relies on a range of professional, administrative and stakeholder advice.

Membership of the CNMC can be found here.