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
26 December 1998
Victoria
At 9.35 a.m. Saturday 26 December 1998 Senior Constable De Winne was travelling south along the Midland Highway near Swanpool intending to intercept a vehicle for a traffic offence. He lost control of his vehicle and it collided with a tree killing him instantly.
On this day
26 December 1983
New South Wales
About 6.35am on 26 December 1983 Constable Lee was riding his motor cycle to work along Peats Ridge Road Peats Ridge. About two kilometres north of Cooks Road a panel van travelling in the opposite direction made a right turn in front of the cycle. The Constable was thrown to the roadway where he sustained severe injuries. Although treated by a passing doctor Constable Lee died a short time later at the Gosford District Hospital. The Constable was born in 1960 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 7 May 1983. At the time of his death he was stationed at Pymble.
On this day
26 December 1911
New South Wales
The Sergeant was the Officer-in-Charge of the Warren Police Station. About 7.30pm on 26 December 1911 Sergeant MacDonnell attended a street disturbance in the township involving an intoxicated man by the name of Neale whom he subsequently arrested. While they were en route to the police station on foot the man produced a revolver and shot Sergeant MacDonnell through the heart. The offender was then very quickly subdued by Constable Mitchell with the assistance of a number of local men. Unfortunately the Sergeant’s wounds proved to be fatal. The Sergeant was born in 1854 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 6 March 1878. At the time of his death he was stationed at Warren.
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