ANZAC Weekend to Remember Lives Lost
As Australia marks ANZAC weekend, a public memorial service in Sydney on 27th April will shine a light on another national toll: lives lost to suicide at a rate that continues to outpace urgent action. The Wesley LifeForce Suicide Memorial Service, taking place at ICC Sydney Exhibition Centre from 12.30 to 1.30 pm, aims to address this pressing issue.
This memorial event coincides with the National Suicide Prevention Conference. Recent data from the Australian Institute of Health and Wellbeing underscores the dire need for action. In 2024, 3,307 Australians died by suicide, which is about 2.5 times the national road toll.
Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15 to 24 and 25 to 44. The defence community also faces significant challenges, with 1,840 serving and ex-serving Australian Defence Force members having died by suicide between 1997 and 2023. In 2022 alone, there were 73 such deaths.
Andy Moore, General Manager of Wesley LifeForce, emphasised the importance of addressing this crisis, stating, "Nine lives lost every day is not a statistic to manage. It is a national emergency that demands a stronger, more urgent response."
Bridging Two Conversations
During the service, attendees will be invited to place sunflowers in memory of loved ones, symbolizing strength, resilience, and hope. ANZAC weekend adds another layer of meaning to the event, as Mr. Moore noted, "ANZAC weekend is about honouring service and sacrifice. For many families, that sacrifice continues long after service ends."
The memorial service is open to everyone, offering a space for remembrance, connection, and support. Mr. Moore stated, "You do not need an invitation. If you have lost someone, or you are carrying that grief quietly, this space is for you. Coming together matters. It reminds people they are not alone and that support is there."
Wesley LifeForce supports over 140 community-led suicide prevention networks across Australia. Over the past 15 years, they have trained more than 40,000 people in suicide prevention.
The event will be held at ICC Sydney Exhibition Centre, Meeting Rooms E.31 and E3.2, 14 Darling Drive, Sydney, NSW 2000. This free public service welcomes individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and faiths, providing a safe and inclusive environment.
Last updated: 24 April 2026, 11:19 am
