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

Constable

George Henry TAYLOR

YEAR OF DEATH

20 March 1920

JURISDICTION

Victoria

DETAILS OF DEATH

About 7.00 pm Monday 15 March 1920 Constable Taylor attempted to arrest Timothy Joseph Bennett a returned soldier who had exhibited symptoms of mental illness. Bennett produced a hand gun and fired at Taylor fatally wounding him. Bennett was later arrested by a group of townspeople who held him pending the arrival of police reinforcements. He was charged with murdering Taylor and was brought to trial at Bendigo Supreme Court. The jury returned a verdict of not guilty on the grounds of insanity and Bennett was then ordered to be detained at the Governor’s pleasure.

On this day

Constable

Frank T BUTTLE

YEAR OF DEATH

20 March 1912

JURISDICTION

Western Australia

DETAILS OF DEATH

Lost at sea somewhere between Port Hedland and Broome from the State ship Koombana during a cyclone. He joined the Police Force on the 20th of March 1893.

On this day

Constable

Francis William GRUNDY

YEAR OF DEATH

20 March 1898

JURISDICTION

New South Wales

DETAILS OF DEATH

On 14 March 1898, Constable Grundy was sent out on duties to Little Billabong outside of Germanton, he was to return that afternoon. About 7.30am, 15 March, Grundy’s horse was found outside the police station gate, riderless. Constable Grundy sustained injuries when the horse fell whilst climbing an embankment. Constable Grundy was transported to Germanton.He died of injuries sustained in the fall.

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.