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

Kenneth John SHORT

YEAR OF DEATH

11 July 1990

JURISDICTION

New South Wales

DETAILS OF DEATH

About 9.30am on 11 July 1990 Constable Short was the observer in a Police vehicle travelling along the Old Princes Highway Yarrawarra. The Police were attending an armed holdup at the ANZ Bank Jannali and when approaching the intersection of Old Bush Road the Police vehicle veered across the roadway and collided head-on with another car. Constable Short was killed instantly. The Constable was born in 1962 and joined the New South Wales Police Service on 9 April 1985. He was sworn in on 22 June 1985. At the time of his death he was stationed at Engadine.

On this day

Senior Constable

Kenneth John ATKINS

YEAR OF DEATH

11 July 1978

JURISDICTION

Victoria

DETAILS OF DEATH

At 9.05 a.m. Tuesday 11 July 1978 whilst involved in motor cycle training exercises on the Tullamarive Freeway Senior Constable Atkins lost control of his machine. He fell sustaining serious injuries and he was taken to the Royal Melbourne Hospital. He died at 11 a.m. the same day.

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.