Unveiling Ceremony to Feature Guest Speakers
The Australian National Maritime Museum will unveil a new panel on the National Monument to Migration on May 9. This panel will honour 431 migrant families from 59 countries. The unveiling will take place at the Welcome Wall in Sydney, a historic site for many migrants’ arrivals.
The National Monument to Migration preserves diverse migration stories, central to the museum’s mission. Since 1999, it has commemorated over 36,000 migrants. Each inscription shares a unique story of individuals or families who have made Australia their home.
Over a thousand attendees are expected, including families represented on the monument. Guest speakers Silvia Colloca from Italy, Simon Chan AM from Hong Kong, and Nisa Alam from Pakistan will share their personal experiences.
A Tradition of Honouring Migrants
Ms Daryl Karp AM, Director and CEO of the Museum, stated, “It is a privilege to recognise these new names and the 59 countries they represent. This latest unveiling continues the museum’s tradition of honouring those from around the globe who have chosen to make Australia their new home.”
Registrations for the next panel on the Monument are open until June 30, 2026. The Welcome Wall, located on the northern promenade of the museum facing Pyrmont Bay, symbolizes a welcoming gesture to those who arrived in Sydney.
Any person born overseas and settled in Australia can have their name registered on the National Monument to Migration. A donation is required for each inscription, reflecting the project’s dedication to honouring the contributions of Australia’s migrant community.
The Welcome Wall was named the National Monument to Migration on March 21, 2021, by Governor General, General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC. Since the first unveiling by Governor General Sir William Deane AC KBE KStJ KC on January 24, 1999, the monument has expanded annually, with new names added each year to celebrate the diverse tapestry of Australia’s population.
The museum’s digital hub allows for the preservation of these stories, adding new entries each year as the monument grows. This initiative reflects the evolving narrative of Australia’s multicultural identity.
Last updated: 6 May 2026, 5:51 pm
