I begin by acknowledging the Ngunnawal peoples, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we meet, and extend that respect to all First Nations people here today.
We gather this morning to launch National Police Legacy Day - a new national tradition, built on more than half a century of compassion, commitment, and care.
Police Legacy was founded in 1971 - born from tragedy, but sustained by generosity. Over the past 5 decades, it has grown into one of the most enduring support networks for policing families in Australia.
Its guiding message is simple, but powerful: those who serve - and their families - should never stand alone.
Australians rightly expect a great deal from our police. We ask them to be brave in dangerous situations, fair in high‑pressure moments, and calm amid the unpredictable. But we should also recognise that behind every officer is a network: of family, colleagues, and community.
When tragedy strikes, Police Legacy is there - not just in the immediate aftermath, but in the months and years that follow. It provides emotional support, financial assistance, and - just as importantly - a deep sense of ongoing connection. These organisations check in, stay close, and remind families that they remain part of something larger.
Every state and territory now has its own Police Legacy organisation. And from this year onwards, we will honour that local commitment on a national stage, with National Police Legacy Day to be held each year on 17 June - beginning in just under 2 weeks' time.
Last month, I had the opportunity to sit down with officers from ACT Policing in my electorate office. We spoke about how crime patterns are changing - and how police are responding. Characteristically, what struck me was not just their focus on enforcement, but their thoughtful attention to the root causes of offending. These are people who see their job not only as responding to harm, but as helping to build a more connected Canberra. Their work reflects the same ethos that underpins Police Legacy: that policing is about community, not just compliance.
That idea - of care embedded in service - is reflected in the symbol we unveil today: the Police Legacy Daisy.
This emblem is drawn from the Michaelmas Daisy, a flower named for St Michael, the patron saint of police. In Christian tradition, St Michael is the protector - the one who stands firm against chaos and defends the innocent. In the Book of Revelation, he leads the forces of good against darkness. But St Michael is not only a warrior; he is also a figure of resolve, of steadfastness in duty.
It is easy to see why police across the world have adopted him as their patron. He represents not just strength, but purpose. A willingness to stand up - not for glory, but for others.
The Michaelmas Daisy, in turn, is a modest bloom that flowers late in the season - when most others have faded. With its delicate purple petals and golden centre, it brings colour and life just as the garden begins to quieten. It has become a symbol of resilience, renewal, and quiet strength - qualities that resonate deeply with the mission of Police Legacy. In choosing it as the emblem of this national day, we acknowledge that behind every act of service is a community that endures.
Because National Police Legacy Day is not only about recognition. It is about belonging.
It reminds us that families who lose someone in the line of duty do not lose their place in the policing family. It reminds us that support is not a one‑off gesture, but a long‑term promise. That even as public attention moves on, the need for care continues.
When we mark the first National Police Legacy Day on 17 June 2025, we'll be shining a light on work that has, for over 50 years, been carried out locally - with dedication, discretion, and deep humanity.
It also poses a question to all of us: What kind of society do we want to be?
Do we applaud service briefly and then move on? Or do we ensure that those who serve - and their families - feel supported, seen, and valued over the long haul?
The work of Police Legacy offers a powerful example. For more than 5 decades, these organisations have shown what it means to turn care into commitment - to provide not just assistance, but ongoing connection. Their efforts remind us that strong communities are built by people who show up - quietly, consistently, and with heart.
As the Assistant Minister for Charities, I'm proud to stand alongside organisations like Police Legacy - and to celebrate the role that charities play in strengthening the social fabric of our nation.
So let this launch be more than a ceremony. Let it be a reminder of what's possible when compassion meets purpose. And when 17 June comes around - this year and every year - let it stand as a day of national gratitude and enduring support for those who serve, and for the families who stand beside them.
To all those who have built and sustained Police Legacy over the decades - thank you.
To the officers who serve our communities every day - thank you.
And to all who stand behind them - in ways large and small - your support helps define the kind of nation we aspire to be.
Thank you.
