National Workers Memorial

The Memorial features a series of tall, slender columns representing the contributions and sacrifice of workers from each state and territory in Australia. From each column, concentric ripples radiate out until they intersect to create a public plaza. This ripple effect acknowledges the profound impact work-related loss has on communities and families.

A website has been developed to link with the Memorial, providing an online space for family and community members to interact and find more information about work health and safety issues. Click here to visit the National Workers Memorial website.

Background to the Memorial

In May 2011, the Australian Government provided funding of $3.0 million for the design and construction of a National Workers Memorial. A design competition was held in late 2011, with the winner selected by an independent jury from a competitive pool of twenty-six entries.



The National Workers Memorial:

• Serves as a reminder of the importance of workplace safety and the need to continue to work together as a nation to improve health and safety performance and prevent work-related accidents, incidents and disease
• Honours and pays tribute to all of the working Australians who have lost their lives to work-related accidents, incidents and disease
• Provides a place to reflect and remember the sacrifice of all workers who have lost their lives
• Recognises and celebrates the vital contribution and significant achievements of Australia's workers to the building of this nation.

The Site

The Memorial is located in Kings Park Canberra on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. Kings Park forms part of the Canberra Central Parklands which are nationally significant because of their place in the Griffin Plan and for their unique blending of commemorative and natural landscapes.

The memorial site is set into the side of an elevated area overlooking the lake among a group of Eurabbie or Blue Gums (Eucalyptus Bicostata).