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

Sergeant

James BEATTY

YEAR OF DEATH

11 January 1890

JURISDICTION

New South Wales

DETAILS OF DEATH

On 11 January 1890 outside the Penrith Police Station the Sergeant had occasion to speak to an Indian vagrant whom he had earlier asked to leave town. The man suddenly leapt at Sergeant Beatty stabbing him five times. Local people and Constable Moseby (possibly Moseley) then pursued the offender and cornered him however the man threw a brick which struck the Constable in the chest. Constable Moseby then drew his service revolver and shot the offender wounding him. The Constable and locals then threw themselves on the offender and he was arrested. He died later that night. Unfortunately the wounds inflicted upon Sergeant Beatty also proved to be fatal. The Sergeant was born in 1835 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 5 February 1858. At the time of his death he was stationed at Penrith.

On this day

Constable

Magnus BAKER

YEAR OF DEATH

11 January 1826

JURISDICTION

Tasmania

DETAILS OF DEATH

Constable Baker was part of a posse of constables sent in pursuit of Thomas Jeffries a bushranger who was wanted for many criminal offences. About 12 miles from George Town Constable Baker was shot through the head by Jeffries who was later captured convicted and hanged.

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.