General Debate

National Police Remembrance Day

House of Representatives · Thursday 4 September 2025

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

Members of the House of Representatives made statements honouring police officers who have died in the line of duty, particularly those killed recently in Tasmania and Victoria. Speakers acknowledged the dangers faced by law enforcement and recognised specific acts of bravery, including responses to natural disasters. The debate also touched on community support for police, the mental health challenges faced by officers, and concerns regarding judicial decisions and protests that some members felt undermined police authority or safety.

Outcome

The motion to permit further statements on Police Remembrance Day was agreed to.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Tony Burke (Watson) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

Burke marked the upcoming National Police Remembrance Day, noting it commemorates officers who have lost their lives in service. Burke highlighted recent tragedies involving officers in Tasmania and Victoria, emphasising the national grief associated with such losses. Burke also recognised specific acts of bravery by Australian Federal Police and New South Wales Police officers during an earthquake in Vanuatu and flood rescues in Taree. Burke acknowledged the broader roles of police in combating transnational crime and supporting communities, stating that parliament would honour those who died making the country safer.

Opposition response

Andrew Hastie (Canning) (Liberal Party) Liberal

Hastie joined the minister in honouring fallen officers, specifically mentioning the recent deaths in Tasmania and Victoria. Hastie expressed condolences to the families and colleagues of the deceased and acknowledged the injured detective and officers involved in the investigation. Hastie emphasised the courage required to serve in dangerous circumstances and the importance of supporting the families of fallen officers. Hastie thanked all serving police for their dedication to protecting Australians and upholding the rule of law.

Helen Haines (Indi) (Independent) Ind support

Haines reflected on the role of police in regional communities, noting their integration into local life and the resilience required for their work. Haines described the shock and mourning in the Indi electorate following the recent killings in Porepunkah, highlighting community solidarity with police. Haines thanked police officers and their families for their service and sacrifice, pledging ongoing support for the force.
Michael McCormack (Riverina) (National Party) Nationals support

McCormack honoured fallen officers, including recent victims and historical figures killed by bushrangers, while criticising judicial decisions that he argued undermined police authority. McCormack specifically referenced a judge's refusal to issue a prohibition order against a protest organiser, arguing this led to increased policing burdens and public disorder. McCormack condemned protests featuring images of alleged police killers and called for stronger judicial action against those who target or insult police officers.
Jason Wood (La Trobe) (Liberal Party) Liberal support

Wood shared personal experiences from his time in the Victoria Police, recalling past tragedies such as the Russell Street bombing and the murders of officers in the 1980s and 1990s. Wood expressed concern over recent protests honouring alleged police killers and called for tougher penalties for those who attack or obstruct police. Wood highlighted the mental health challenges faced by officers, particularly those working in child exploitation units, and urged greater support for the police force.

Opened by

Tony Burke (Watson) (Australian Labor Party)

ALP

Speeches

6 speeches, 3 other contributors

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About House of Representatives debates

The House of Representatives debates bills, motions and matters of public importance in its main chamber. Members from all parties can take part, and the responsible minister usually replies for the government. Summaries are in reported speech, not transcripts; always check the official record before quoting.