The seat was organised by Maitland Regional Suicide Prevention Network. It is the second seat they have initiated in the park.

Network chairman Steve Schumacher said the idea behind the bench, which faces the main cenotaph, was for people to sit and reflect on life today and also on what soldiers went through in World War I, 101 years ago.

The bench also includes a plaque with phone numbers for Lifeline (13 11 14), Kids Helpline (1800 551 800) and Suicide Callback (1800 011 511) for those who may be struggling.

"There is help out there, the problem is getting people to the help when they don't know where it is," Mr Schumacher said.

The bench was funded through the Federal Government's Armistice Centenary Grants Program, while Maitland City Council supplied and installed it.

Paterson MP Meryl Swanson said it was important to acknowledge lives lost in conflict, but also to recognise there are people taking their own lives as well.

"It's high time to recognise there is an issue," she said.

Maitland RSL Sub-Branch chairman Eric Bell said he hoped the seat and plaque would encourage people to reach out for help or check on those around them.

For more information on the Maitland Regional Suicide Prevention Network, call 0408 280 898.