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

Senior Constable (Rtd)

Oswald Travase WATTS

YEAR OF DEATH

21 April 1965

JURISDICTION

New South Wales

DETAILS OF DEATH

On 27 November 1955 Senior Constable Watts attended a traffic accident on the Hume Highway at Gunning Gap just north of Yass. As he was standing beside a semi-trailer speaking to a motorist who had ignored a flagman he saw a truck approaching at high speed. He dived beneath the semi-trailer to get out of the way however as he stood up on the far side of the semi it was hit by the speeding truck. Constable Watts was hit and pinned between the semi-trailer and another vehicle sustaining internal injuries. He was admitted to the Yass District Hospital. Although resuming full duties the following month Constable Watts’ health deteriorated and he was discharged medically unfit on 18 May 1961. He died on 21 April 1965. The Constable was born in 1905 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 13 June 1928. At the time of his injury he was stationed at Yass.

On this day

Probationary Constable

Frank EVANS

YEAR OF DEATH

21 April 1900

JURISDICTION

New South Wales

DETAILS OF DEATH

About 6.00am, Probationary Constable Evans was performing barrier duties at the quarantine area in Darling Harbour, Sydney. Whilst patrolling the premises of the Fresh Food and Ice Company, he walked through the area where the ice saws were operating. His great coat has become entangled in one of the operating saws, drawing him into the saw. He was killed instantly as a result of the incident.

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.