Australia to build memorial for military personnel killed in training

The Australian government has announced the establishment of the Australian Military Training Memorial on Anzac Parade in Canberra. The project, supported by a $500,000 government grant, was proposed by the Australian Peacekeeper and Peacemaker Veterans’ Association to honor Australian Defence Force (ADF) members who have died during training exercises.

Defence Minister Richard Marles stated that the memorial will address a longstanding gap in national commemorations, serving as a reminder of the risks and sacrifices made by ADF personnel. Veterans’ Affairs Minister Matt Keogh noted that approximately 50 ADF members have died during training over the past 30 years.

The announcement follows several recent fatalities, including a parachuting incident in March 2024 and a vehicle rollover in the Northern Territory in October. The memorial will be positioned alongside other national monuments to ensure those lost during training are formally acknowledged by the nation.