National Police Memorial

In 2001, it was resolved to establish a National Police Memorial in Canberra.

The Memorial pays tribute to Australian Police Officers who have been killed on duty or have died as a result of their duties since the advent of policing in Australia and to recognise the unique nature of police service and the dangers that police face in their daily pursuits.
The $2.4million memorial was jointly funded by the Australian Government (through the Australian Federal Police), State and Territory Police Services and Police Federation of Australia.

The Memorial was completed and dedicated on 29 September 2006 (National Police Remembrance Day). Following the dedication ceremony, a criteria for future inclusion of names on the National Police Memorial was agreed upon together with a National Police Memorial Co-ordination Committee.

On this day

Constable 1st Class

Douglas James HARRIES

YEAR OF DEATH

02 September 1961

JURISDICTION

New South Wales

DETAILS OF DEATH

At 7.45pm on 25 August 1961 Constable Harries was performing traffic control duty at the intersection of George and Park Streets Sydney when he was struck by a utility. As a result the Constable sustained severe head injuries and was conveyed by Ambulance to the Sydney Hospital. Despite two operations to save his life Constable Harries died without regaining consciousness on 2 September 1961. The Constable was born in 1928 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 13 August 1951.’

On this day

Constable

Peter WINSTANLEY

YEAR OF DEATH

02 September 1843

JURISDICTION

Tasmania

DETAILS OF DEATH

Martin Cash bushranger and absconder arrived in Hobart Town on the 29th August 1843. Cash and his offsider Jones were recognised by Constable Robert Agar as wanted men. According to Constable Agar’s witness statement at the court trial he and another Constable chased Cash through the streets of Hobart pursuing him until caught. During the pursuit Cash shot Constable Peter Winstanley who had attempted to intercept the bushranger. He later died from his injuries.

Complete Honour Roll

Affiliated events

Remembering mates – Wall to Wall Ride is held in September each year.

Click here for more information.

National Police Remembrance Day is an annually recognised on 29th September.

Please note for 2026, services will be held on Tuesday 29 September.

Check with your State/Territory police organisation for local information of services to be held, or click here for more information.