The Northern Territory Police Force (NTPF) proudly acknowledges Senior Constable Josef Hart and Detective Superintendent Lee Morgan as recipients of the Australian Police Medal (APM) in the 2026 Australia Day Honours List.
The Australian Police Medal recognises distinguished service by members of Australian police services and is one of the nation's highest honours for policing excellence.
Senior Constable Hart has dedicated more than three decades to policing in the Northern Territory, serving across frontline, specialist and remote postings including Borroloola, Maningrida, Daly River and Galiwinku. Widely regarded as a true "bush cop," Senior Constable Hart has built enduring trust within remote communities through cultural respect, community engagement and service above self.
Since 2013, Senior Constable Hart has been a cornerstone of the Junior Police Rangers (JPR) Program, while also supporting the NT Police and NT Fire and Emergency Services Cadet Program, recruit training and driver training. Through his mentoring and leadership, countless young Territorians have been empowered with skills in leadership, teamwork, cultural awareness and resilience, with many going on to careers within policing and emergency services.
Senior Constable Hart has also been recognised for acts of bravery, including a 2012 ocean rescue at Dhudupu Beach, for which he received a Royal Humane Society bravery citation. His career reflects a lifelong commitment to building capability within the NTPF and strengthening community relationships across the Territory.
Detective Superintendent Morgan has served in the NTPF for over 27 years, working across frontline, investigative and senior leadership roles in remote, regional and metropolitan regions including Alice Springs, Groote Eylandt, Papunya and Darwin.
Currently commanding the Drug and Organised Crime Division, Detective Superintendent Morgan leads complex operations targeting serious organised crime, drug trafficking and firearms offences. He is nationally recognised for his calm and decisive leadership during critical incidents, including his role as Territory Duty Superintendent during the 2019 Darwin mass shooting, where his tactical judgement and communication were instrumental in resolving the incident.
Detective Superintendent Morgan has also played a pivotal role in establishing the Fugitive Task Force, an enduring operational capability that has significantly improved community safety through the arrest of high-risk offenders. His leadership during the COVID-19 response, high-profile coronial investigations, and national organised crime forums has strengthened interagency collaboration and frontline policing outcomes.
Commissioner of Police Martin Dole APM said the awardees reflect the very best of Northern Territory policing.
"I acknowledge both Senior Constable Josef Hart and Detective Superintendent Lee Morgan for their unwavering professionalism, integrity and commitment to serving and protecting the Northern Territory community.
"Both officers have dedicated an extensive amount of their lives to policing and are exemplary leaders for all." the Commissioner said.
The Northern Territory Police Force congratulates Senior Constable Hart and Detective Superintendent Morgan on this well-deserved recognition and thanks them for their exceptional service to the community.
