I begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the Land on which we meet, and I pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging.
I would also like to acknowledge:
Scott Weber, CEO of the Police Federation of Australia
Krissy Barrett, Commissioner of the AFP
And all other distinguished guests, including my colleagues from across the Parliament.
I would especially like to acknowledge all police officers here with us tonight – and on behalf of the nation, I thank you.
The National Police Bravery Awards were developed as an award “for police by police”. As the name makes clear, it is an award that transcends all borders of state or jurisdiction.
It also builds on the fundamental truth: that to answer the calling and enlist is, in itself, an act of courage and a profound expression of character.
To put on the uniform then put yourself on the line for the sake of others is not a decision anyone makes lightly.
Yet it keeps being made by young Australians who don’t simply believe in the possibility of a better Australia, but are ready to do their bit to turn that possibility into reality.
It is a decision that comes from a spirit of selflessness, and the desire to serve the community and ensure its wellbeing.
The way of life that we cherish as Australians is the envy of so much of the world – and it is underpinned by our police in all their integrity, initiative, energy and courage.
Sadly, that latter quality is increasingly being called upon amid a rising tide of aggression.
This has been much on our minds in Parliament this week following the attack on our friend and colleague, the Member for Indi, Dr Helen Haines.
We are grateful to every police officer who was there for Helen in her most desperate hour – and every officer who is now part of the investigation.
While this was an attack on a politician, we spoke in Parliament about the growing hostility towards others as they do their jobs.
And that, very regrettably, includes police.
As tonight’s awards make clear, that hostility sometimes, tragically, takes the ultimate form. We mourn every officer who falls in the line of duty.
And we reflect with awe on the courage of every officer who stands firm in the worst circumstances, protecting others and, even when facing the gravest danger, showing us the best of the Australian character.
That is what we see in tonight’s recipients: Senior Constable Bikash Bharati from Burwood Police Area Command in Sydney, and every officer who was there amid the devastation of Wieambilla, an incident that, in the matter-of-fact words of the Queensland Police Union, saw “many acts of bravery”.
Tonight, we express our gratitude and admiration through this act of recognition.
I invite you to join me in giving them a big hand.