Veteran suicide memorial on drawing board

The Australian War Memorial is considering a special project to honour veterans who have taken their own lives as a result of their military service.

Looking down ANZAC Parade to the Australian War Memorial

Looking down ANZAC Parade to the Australian War Memorial Source: AAP

The Australian War Memorial is considering hosting a special sculpture on its grounds to honour veterans overcome with trauma who have taken their own lives as a result of their military service.

The RSL is pushing for the project to go ahead.

War Memorial director Brendan Nelson said a water sculpture was being considered but it would not carry names.

He said there would be consultations with veterans groups, families and experts in psychological trauma.

"We're very open to this, it doesn't mean it is definitely going to happen," Dr Nelson said.

He said it would be unwise to call it a "suicide memorial".

Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467.

MensLine Australia 1300 78 99 78.

Multicultural Mental Health Australia www.mmha.org.au.

Local Aboriginal Medical Service available from www.vibe.com.au.


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Published 30 May 2017 6:28pm
Source: AAP


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