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

John TENNANT

YEAR OF DEATH

24 October 1916

JURISDICTION

Victoria

DETAILS OF DEATH

About 4.15 p.m. Tuesday 24 October 1916 Senior Constable Tennant was a passenger in a Ford motor car which was being driven along the Dalyston Road Kilcunda. At that time the vehicle developed a steering fault ran off the road and overturned crushing and killing the Constable. The car had been hired from the Powlett Hotel Wonthaggi to take Tennant to Kernot to make enquiries. He was on the return journey when the accident happened.

On this day

Chief Constable

William BENNETT

YEAR OF DEATH

24 October 1827

JURISDICTION

Tasmania

DETAILS OF DEATH

Chief Constable Bennett died as a result of spear wounds inflicted during an attack by Aborigines at the home of a Mr Presnell, who resided at St Peter’s Pass.

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.