Remembrance Day is being observed today to honour police officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty across Australia.
NSW Premier Chris Minns paid tribute, saying: “Every day, we ask our officers to walk into terrible situations as an ordinary part of their job. The truth is we don’t have a choice – we need them. But with that comes a debt.”
“We owe them our gratitude, our resources, our unwavering support, and when the worst happens, we owe them our undying memory.”
This year, the state honours Constable Keith Smith from Tasmania, and Detective Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart from Victoria, who were recently killed while on duty. Eight historic officers have also been added to the honour roll, alongside twelve officers and administrative staff who passed away in the past year. In total, 284 NSW Police officers have died in relation to their duties.
Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan said: “Today, on National Police Remembrance Day, we remember the 178 Victoria Police officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty since Victoria Police was established in 1853. This day is a solemn occasion every year. But today, it feels especially heavy. Just one month after the loss of Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart-Hottart.”
“I want to acknowledge their families, and the loved ones of every officer who paid the ultimate sacrifice – to protect and serve our community. We will never forget them. With honour they served.”
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) is joining forces with police across the nation to pause and remember those who have given their lives in service. The commemoration holds added poignancy following the brutal murder of Thompson and De Waart-Hottart in Porepunkah, Victoria, on 26 August 2025.
While Thompson and De Waart-Hottart will be added to the National Police Memorial in Canberra next year, a touchstone commemorating Constable Keith Smith, who was fatally shot in North Motton, Tasmania, on 16 June 2025, will be placed this year alongside 831 other officers. Smith was 57.
AFP Commissioner Reece P. Kershaw APM highlighted the dangers and sacrifices inherent in policing.
“Today, it is important to reflect on the very rewarding, but also very dangerous, job police perform all across Australia – the lives they touch, the communities they protect, and the countless ways they make a difference.”
Support our Journalism
No-nonsense journalism. No paywalls. Whether you’re in Australia, the UK, Canada, the USA, or India, you can support The Australia Today by taking a paid subscription via Patreon or donating via PayPal — and help keep honest, fearless journalism alive.
