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
01 September 1986
New South Wales
On 1 September 1986 Sergeant Jennings was at home at the police residence attached to the West Wallsend Police Station. While the Sergeant was mowing the lawns (one of his duties) he suffered a fatal heart attack. The Sergeant was born in 1944 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 22 February 1965. At the time of his death he was stationed at West Wallsend.
On this day
01 September 1951
New South Wales
On the afternoon of 1 September 1951 Sergeant Smith and Constable Searl attended the Commercial Hotel Port Kembla in relation to an intoxicated man causing trouble. After a struggle the Police managed to gain control over the man and walk him to the Police Station. Although suffering some physical discomfort after the struggle the Sergeant remained on duty. A short time later however he began to lose the use of his arm and experience considerable pain. He was taken to the Wollongong District Hospital but unfortunately died at 7.10pm that day. The Sergeant was born in 1895 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 9 September 1921. At the time of his death he was stationed at Port Kembla.
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.
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