About the project
A name returned to its resting place.
About us
Research has shown that there are many returned First World War veterans who, for a variety of reasons, have ended up in unmarked graves around this country. It is estimated, based on the work carried out so far, that the number in Australia could be as high as 12,000.
A simple but time-consuming record matching process is undertaken by volunteers around Australia to determine the names and locations of these men.
A simple headstone is then installed on the unmarked grave with a plaque worded by our teams, often in conjunction with family members. A smaller plinth may be installed on an existing grave where the veteran's name does not appear on the memorial. We hand-make each headstone or plinth using designs created by us and work with councils and other local authorities to ensure our work complies with all local cemetery rules and regulations.
Where it can be determined that the veteran's cause of death can be attributed to his war service, the case is then handed over to the Office of Australian War Graves.
Our work is made possible through a myriad of sponsors. Please visit the Partner page in each state to see our valued sponsors and in-kind supporters.
Where are we
Slowly but surely, around the country.
The long term aim of The Headstone Project is to put a headstone on the grave of every returned World War 1 soldier whose last resting place is unmarked. The journey began in Tasmania in 2011 and is moving slowly but surely around the country.
Each state has its own activities and operations.
Tasmania
Where the project began in 2011.
South Australia
Active program of identifications and dedications.
Western Australia
Building a team of volunteers.
New South Wales
Early stages.
Queensland
Early stages.
Victoria
Early stages.