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
25 September 1918
Queensland
Trooper Daryl James Gilchrist Dodds (M.I.D.) A.I.F. number 1175 11th Australian Light Horse. Mentioned in dispatches by General Sir E.H.H. Allenby for distinguished and gallant services and devotion to duty. Killed in action in Palestine on Wednesday 25 September 1918. He is buried in the Halfa Military Cemetery Palestine Israel.
On this day
25 September 1897
Queensland
Caught in a mine tunnel collapse at Coen.
On this day
25 September 1893
Victoria
On 15 February 1893 Senior Constable Holt was investigating a case in the vicinity of Bailieston about five miles from Nagambie. His horse swerved to avoid a flock of sheep which ran into its path and this dislodged Holt from the saddle. One of his feet was caught in a stirrup and as the horse gyrated wildly he was tossed around violently and received internal injuries. From that day his physical condition progressively declined and he was finally forced to resign because of his ill-health. He died on 25 September 1893.
On this day
25 September 1863
Victoria
Shortly after 11 p.m. 25 September 1863 Superintendent Taylor was accidentally shot dead whilst he was cleaning his revolver at his home address.
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