A new memorial to honour the lives of victims and survivors of family violence will be created in the heart of Melbourne.
Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence Fiona Richardson and Lord Mayor Robert Doyle today announced the joint Victorian Government and the City of Melbourne project, which will honour family violence victims.
The scale, location and design of the memorial will be shaped by those impacted by family violence and the broader community, with a consultation process to open later this month.
In making the announcement Ms Richardson and Mr Doyle said that it was important that there was a dedicated and permanent space created in Melbourne’s CBD, to mark the devastating and far-reaching impact of family violence.
The new memorial comes after feedback from survivors, and will provide a place for healing, reflection and remembering. Ms Richardson and Mr Doyle urged community feedback on the memorial, welcoming ideas from across the state.
The announcement forms part of the inaugural Victoria Against Violence, a 16 day campaign which seeks to urge every Victorian to unite and change in order to address family violence.
Quotes attributable to Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence, Fiona Richardson
“The Andrews Labor Government recognises family violence as one of the biggest challenges facing our state. It is an issue which impacts all Victorians and transcends postcode or background.”
“Establishing a memorial to the victims of family violence is a powerful statement that this is not an issue to be hidden, but will be publicly and permanently acknowledged.”
Quotes attributable to Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Robert Doyle
“Melbourne is an official ‘White Ribbon City’ and we are committed to raising awareness of family violence, as well as supporting women and children who are at risk of, or experiencing, violence.”
“Establishing a family violence memorial in the city is about providing a central place where people feel comfortable to sit and quietly reflect; a place of healing, not a reminder of brutality.”
Quotes attributable to family violence survivor and advocate, Kristy McKellar
“This project provides deserving recognition and respect for those whom have suffered and the courage they have shown. I hope to see the memorial correlate to restoring strength, hope and dignity for those that have been devastated by these violent crimes.”
“I commend this joint Victorian Government and City of Melbourne initiative, connecting our community on the issue of family violence, maintaining awareness and educating future generations.”
Reviewed 20 January 2021