National Workers Memorial (Australia) facts for kids
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The National Workers Memorial is a special place in Canberra, Australia's capital city. It honors people who have died because of accidents, incidents, or illnesses related to their jobs. It's a way to remember their lives and the important work they did.
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Why We Have the Memorial
Honoring Workers and Promoting Safety
The Australian Government decided to build this memorial in May 2011. They wanted a place to honor and remember all Australians who lost their lives because of their work. This includes accidents, unexpected events, or illnesses that happened on the job.
The memorial also reminds everyone how important it is to be safe at work. It encourages people to keep working hard to prevent accidents and illnesses. It's a place to think about how much we value safety in our workplaces.
A Place for Reflection and Remembrance
This memorial offers a quiet spot for visitors to remember someone they loved. It's a place to pause and think, with the gentle sound of the National Carillon bells nearby. People can gather here for special events and ceremonies.
It is also a main spot for Australia's Workers Memorial Day. This day is recognized around the world on April 28 each year. It's a time to remember workers who have died and to promote safer workplaces. Sadly, about 300 people in Australia die each year due to work-related causes.
Where the Memorial Is Located
A Peaceful Spot in Canberra
The National Workers Memorial is in Kings Park, Canberra, right next to Lake Burley Griffin. You can hear the beautiful bells of the National Carillon from this spot. It's a peaceful place in the heart of Canberra.
Nearby Memorials
Other important memorials are also close by. These include the National Police Memorial, which honors police officers. There is also a memorial for the HMAS Canberra (D33), a ship with a significant history.
The National Capital Authority approved the memorial's location. This is because it sits within the Parliamentary Triangle area of Canberra.
How the Memorial Is Designed
Symbolic Stone Poles and Circles
The memorial features eight tall stone poles. These poles are placed to represent the capital cities of Australia's states and territories. Around these poles are circles with words carved into them. These words represent the goal of knowing and using good safety practices at work.
The architectural firm Johnson Pilton Walker designed this meaningful structure. The design helps visitors understand the importance of work health and safety.
Important Messages on the Path
As you walk along the path leading to the memorial, you will see two important messages. These messages are carved into the path's edge:
- every worker has the right to return home
- every workplace death diminishes us as a nation
These words remind us of the value of every worker's life. They also highlight the impact of workplace tragedies on the whole country. The construction of this memorial cost about A$3 million.
Opening Ceremony
The National Workers Memorial was officially opened on Sunday, April 28, 2013. This date is important because it is Workers Memorial Day. Many people attended the ceremony to honor those who had lost their lives.
Images for kids
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"every worker has the right to return home"
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"every workplace death diminishes us as a nation" and "I think about her every day"
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Plaque
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See also
- National Workers Memorial - United States (Silver Spring, Maryland)
