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 November 1892
Northern Territory
On 1st November 1892, two native police, Tommy and WALTER, while investigating the theft of some goats from Erldunda Station, were attacked by about 20 Aborigines. WALTER was killed by a spear.
On this day
01 November 1868
New South Wales
On 6 October 1868 Constable McCabe was searching an area near the Queensland border for bushrangers Frank Pearson (Captain Starlight) and Charles Rutherford. He was accompanied by Constable Hugh McManus of the Queensland Police Force. During their patrol the police stopped for supplies at Shearer’s Inn Enngonia (about 100 kilometres from Bourke). While they were so engaged two riders appeared and entered the inn. Almost immediately Pearson yelled ”Bail up!” with the obvious intention of robbing those present. The two police who had taken their weapons into the inn turned and fired at the two offenders. Constable McCabe who had dropped to one knee and fired was shot in the chest however he managed to fire several times hitting Pearson in the wrist and right arm. The two bushrangers then ran from the inn and escaped. After rallying for almost a month Constable McCabe died as a result of both his wound and the resultant infection. The Senior Constable was born in 1828 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 23 February 1863. At the time of his death he was stationed at Biree (Brewarrina).
On this day
01 November 1841
New South Wales
The details of the death of Constable Connell in Sydney are unknown.
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