The Victorian Government has officially unveiled a Family Violence Memorial at St Andrews Place Reserve to honour those who have lost their lives to family violence and all victim survivors who have suffered trauma.
Minister for Prevention of Family Violence, Gabrielle Williams opened the memorial alongside Victim Survivors’ Advisory Council (VSAC) Chair, Jennifer Jackson.
The memorial, designed in partnership with members of VSAC and the City of Melbourne, places the stories and shared hopes of victim survivors at its centre. The memorial holds space for the lives lost, and the potential those lives held, as well as a place for hope for a future free from violence, the Minister said.
“All violence is preventable, and this memorial creates space for us to remember and honour the lives of those lost and the potential that those lives held,” said Ms Williams.
“The insights and leadership of those with lived experiences have been integral to the design and development of this significant place. I am grateful to those who have lent their stories and experiences to this project.”
Family violence comes in many forms, and the memorial is a space for all, including those victims without visible scars, victims in LGBTIQ relationships, those who have suffered from elder abuse and children and young people, she said.
“Centred around a garden of purple flowers which will bloom year-round, the living space is designed to be welcoming and accessible to all, while symbolising our commitment to ending violence against women, and our shared responsibility in ending all forms of violence.”
The circular seat under an English elm tree provides a quiet space for reflection. The tree is central to the design and represents the passing of time, renewal and a bright future.
A smoking vessel embedded in the memorial will facilitate Indigenous cultural practices and remind visitors of their responsibility to look after Country and community.
“We’re proud to partner with the Victorian Government, victims and survivors of family violence and other advocates to create a welcoming and inclusive space in the heart of Melbourne for reflection and healing,” said Melbourne City Council Lord Mayor, Sally Capp.
“Family violence is one of the biggest challenges facing our country, and this memorial will serve as a permanent reminder of the importance of a community-wide approach to address the problem.”
The Labor Government has invested $700,000 in its design and construction. MUIR+OPENWORK designed the site, after extensive consultation with victim survivors and Traditional Owners.
For more information, visit vic.gov.au/family-violence-memorial.
