Police from all Australian jurisdictions will march down Kings Avenue in Canberra today. Photo: Australian Federal Police (AFP).
Canberra drivers are being warned to expect traffic disruptions in Barton and Parkes today as police across the country pause for National Police Remembrance Day.
ACT Policing says several road closures will be in place to allow for the national memorial service at 4:30 pm:
- Kings Avenue (both directions) – King George Terrace to Parkes Way, including the Kings Avenue Bridge, from 4 pm to 5 pm
- Blackall Street (both directions) – Broughton Street to Kings Avenue, from 3 pm to 5 pm
- Wendouree Drive (both directions) – Kings Avenue to the National Carillon, all day
Police are urging drivers to plan ahead, obey traffic controllers and avoid breaking road rules to get around delays.
This year’s commemoration carries extra weight, following the deaths of three Australian police officers in recent months.
Wreaths will be laid and a new touchstone added at the National Police Memorial in Kings Park. Photo: Australian Federal Police, Facebook.
Tasmania Police Constable Keith Anthony Smith, who was fatally shot while on duty in North Motton in June, will be formally honoured at the National Police Memorial in Kings Park today. His name joins more than 830 others who have died in the line of duty across Australia and the South-West Pacific.
The names of Victoria Police Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart, who were murdered in Porepunka, Victoria, in August, will be added to the memorial next year.
AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw said the service was a time to reflect on both the risks and the sacrifices that come with being a police officer.
“Policing offers unique challenges and sometimes means the brave, selfless men and women who serve do not go home to their families,” he said.
The national service will begin at 4:30 pm at the National Police Memorial in Kings Park. Members of the public are welcome to attend or watch online via livestream.
