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

James RICHARDSON

YEAR OF DEATH

13 September 1825

JURISDICTION

Tasmania

DETAILS OF DEATH

On the morning of Tuesday 13 September 1825, Constable RICHARDSON oversaw a gang of brick makers and several wood carters working in the bush on the shores of Macquarie Harbour, across the bay from the main settlement on Sarah Island.

While attempting to alert the main settlement of the sighting of two escaped prisoners, RICHARDSON was murdered by another prisoner who was attempting to prevent the alarm being raised.

On this day

Sergeant 3rd Class

Lawrence Benjamin Armitage NEWELL

YEAR OF DEATH

13 September 1945

JURISDICTION

New South Wales

DETAILS OF DEATH

On the night of 13 September 1945 Sergeant Newell left the Liverpool Police Station to attend a brawl in Macquarie Street Liverpool. Upon his arrival the Sergeant attempted to arrest a British naval rating. A struggle ensued during which the Sergeant suffered a heart attack. He was conveyed to the Liverpool Hospital however died soon after being admitted. The Sergeant was born in 1898 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 30 March 1921. At the time of his death he was stationed at Liverpool.

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 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.