Police Week

Smith acknowledged the motion and the service of former police officers in parliament. Smith noted the addition of three names to the National Police Memorial, including those killed in Victoria and Tasmania, and extended condolences to their families. Smith argued that attacks on police are attacks on the fabric of Australian society and called for collective action to prevent such violence. Smith urged lawmakers to work together to ensure future remembrance days are occasions of reflection rather than grief.

Conaghan praised the presence of former police officers in parliament and shared personal reflections on the camaraderie and difficulties of police work. Conaghan highlighted the Wall to Wall Ride for Remembrance and acknowledged the families of officers killed in Victoria and Crescent Head. Conaghan emphasised the sacrifices made by police families, who worry about their loved ones' safety. Conaghan commended Police Legacy for providing essential support to the families of fallen officers.

Lim shared personal experiences from 16 years in the WA Police Force, describing the lasting physical and mental scars of the job. Lim paid tribute to colleagues who died or were injured recently and highlighted the issue of police burnout and mental health struggles. Lim argued that police officers need support both during service and in retirement to maintain the profession as a viable career path. Lim encouraged struggling officers to seek help and thanked police for their daily protection of communities.

Batt expressed condolences for the officers killed in Victoria and highlighted the increasing difficulty of police work and recruitment challenges. Batt called for a parliamentary inquiry into police recruitment, retention, and suicides, citing the need for better mental health support and financial concessions. Batt suggested considering fringe benefit tax concessions and a blue card for medical services similar to those for defence force members. Batt commended Police Legacy for supporting the family of a former colleague and urged immediate action to support police welfare.

Elliot honoured the officers killed in Victoria and acknowledged the grief experienced by their families and the wider police community. Elliot noted the challenges faced by police in regional areas and the importance of remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Elliot commended Police Legacy for providing financial and specialist care to police legatees. Elliot encouraged the public to reflect on the vital role of police and to attend remembrance events.

Payne marked the 36th National Police Remembrance Day and highlighted the history of policing in the ACT. Payne offered condolences to the families of the officers killed in Victoria and noted the personal details of the fallen officers. Payne emphasised the role of police as first responders in emergencies and the personal risks they undertake. Payne encouraged community attendance at remembrance events and acknowledged the support provided by Police Legacy to families of deceased officers.