28 April 2026 will mark 30 years since the 1996 tragedy at Port Arthur.
For many, it will be a time of quiet remembrance and reflection. Others may find greater solace in coming together in some way.
To ensure the day is marked in a way that reflects the diverse experiences and needs of the communities of people impacted, we have established a committee to hear from those who wish to share.
CEO Will Flamsteed will be leading the Committee with an independent, trauma-informed practitioner facilitating the consultation and planning process.
Members of the committee will include former PAHSMA Chief Executive Officer, 1996 first responders, representatives from Tasmania’s emergency and police services and individuals impacted by the events of 1996, including local community and those who lost loved ones.
If you would like to share your thoughts, you are welcome to do so in writing or through a confidential one-on-one conversation with Will or a member of the committee. To arrange this, please contact us at: consultation@portarthur.org.au
While there is no single “right” way to mark this day, our intention is to reflect what matters most to the communities of people impacted by the 1996 tragedy. We are committed to bringing peoples thoughts and wishes together in a way that is guided by shared experience and honours the diversity within it.
The Committee will be seeking input over the next two months, until 3 October 2025, and an update on their resolution will be provided in early November.
