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
09 March 1928
Western Australia
Edmond Nicholas Kelly was refused further drinks and ejected from the Brisbane Hotel, Beaufort St, Perth. He later returned with a gun and menaced staff. Sargeant Mark was summoned and upon arrival, shot in the chest by Kelly. Despite the injuries, Sgt. Mark overpowered and arrested Kelly, but died later that day. He joined the Police Force on the 6th of April, 1899.
On this day
09 March 1924
New South Wales
On the 9 March 1924 Constable Flynn went to a construction site at Cordeaux Dam (where a temporary police station had been established) south of Appin where he arrested the offender Simpson who had broken into an office to steal two pistols. While the offender was being conveyed to Campbelltown Police Station in the victim Mr Clift’s car the offender suddenly produced a pistol and shot Constable Flynn in the side of the body. Mr Clift stopped the vehicle and took hold of the offender however after a furious struggle he too was shot in the groin and Simpson escaped. Mr Clift then drove his vehicle to Appin however it was found that Constable Flynn had succumbed to his wounds. Mr Clift also died the following day. The Constable was born in 1897 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 4 July 1921. At the time of his death he was stationed at Cordeaux Dam.
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 2025, services will be held on Monday 29th September.
Check with your State/Territory police organisation for local information of services to be held, or click here for more information.
The National Police Memorial is located in Kings Park on the northern shore of Lake Burley Griffin adjacent to Queen Elizabeth II Island and the National Carrillion. View in Google maps