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

Robert Wayne THOMSON

YEAR OF DEATH

24 March 1973

JURISDICTION

New South Wales

DETAILS OF DEATH

About 8.25pm on 24 March 1973 Constable Thompson was riding a Police Special Traffic Patrol solo motor cycle along Military Road Mosman. As he drove through the intersection of Belmont Road a car travelling in the opposite direction made a right turn in front of him. The Constable attempted to lay the cycle down however its momentum carried it into the turning vehicle. Constable Thompson was killed instantly. The Constable was born in 1947 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 22 February 1971. At the time of his death he was attached to the Traffic branch.

On this day

Constable

James Paul SLATTERY

YEAR OF DEATH

24 March 1893

JURISDICTION

Victoria

DETAILS OF DEATH

Constable Slattery commenced duty at 5 p.m. 24 March 1893 after which he went to see a Magistrate to get some documents signed. To reach the Magisrtrate he had to cross the local railway line. Instead of using the overhead footbridge he climbed the fence and walked across the rails at Dover Street. He was knocked down by the 5.19 p.m. Essendon to Melbourne train and died soon afterwards.

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 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.