The Morrison Government has announced it will provide $120,000 to construct a new memorial in Perth to recognise and commemorate Australian servicemen and women who served in the Korean War.
The Korean War, or sometimes referred to as the Forgotten War, is commemorated with dedicated cenotaphs and memorials around Australia, but not in Perth.
Perth is one of only two Australian capitals cities that does not have a dedicated cenotaph or memorial to the veterans of the Korean War.
The Morrison Government is pleased to be working with the Perth Korean War Memorial Committee to rectify this.
Senator for Western Australia, Michaelia Cash, said the Saluting Their Service grants program ensured Australia’s wartime history was preserved and the sacrifice of those who had served during wars, conflicts and peace operations was remembered.
“With over 17,000 Australians who served in the Korean War, this memorial, located in Kings Park, will allow for a centrally located, dedicated place for reflection, and commemoration for their service and sacrifice,” Minister Cash said.
Liberal Candidate for Perth, David Dwyer, said the funding from the Morrison Government would assist with site works and construction of this important memorial.
“We know that 1,673 Western Australians served in the Korean War of whom 34 were killed, and six classified as missing in action,” Mr Dwyer said.
“With approximately 150 WA veterans of the Korean War still with us, this memorial will provide veterans and their loved ones a dedicated memorial to reflect on their service to our nation.”
The Republic of Korea is supporting this project with stone from Gapyeong County that will form the centre piece of the memorial.
Gapyeong County is the location of one of the most significant battles for Australian troops, the Battle of Kapyong. In battle to prevent Seoul falling into enemy hands, 32 Australians were killed and 53 wounded.
The Perth Korean War Memorial Committee, comprising Australian veterans from other conflicts, members of the Korean Community and the Honorary Consult for the Republic of Korea in WA was established to progress the construction of a suitable memorial in Kings Park.