An inaugural Tasmania Police award recognising outstanding community policing has been established to honour 57-year-old Constable Keith Smith, who was shot and killed while on duty in the state’s north west in June.
Announcing the award today, Acting Commissioner Jonathan Higgins said Constable Smith was a well-respected and dedicated police officer who was committed to providing meaningful support to individuals while building lasting relationships founded on trust and service.
“These values – of service and support – defined his 25-year career,” Acting Commissioner Higgins said.
“In honour of Constable Smith, Commissioner Donna Adams has established the Keith Smith Community Policing Award.
“We want to ensure the memory of Constable Keith Smith lives on and that the legacy of his community spirit continues to be recognised through the presentation of this annual award.”
Constable Smith was killed on Monday 16 June while serving a warrant on a rural property at North Motton in Tasmania’s north-west.
“The inaugural award seeks nominations from within Tasmania Police and members of the Tasmanian community for a currently-serving police officer who demonstrates an outstanding commitment to community-focused policing and engagement.
“We’re looking to recognise a serving police officer whose service to the community reflects the compassion, service, and trust that Constable Smith embodied throughout his 25-year career.”
Members of the community are invited to submit a nomination for a police officer who has made a significant impact or contribution through community policing, or who has demonstrated sustained or outstanding community-focused policing efforts within Tasmania.
The recipient of the inaugural award will be announced at our medal and award ceremonies later this year, and will be presented with a citation by the Commissioner.
Nominations close on Friday 19 September.
To find out more about the inaugural Keith Smith Community Policing Award and how to make a nomination, please visit: Keith Smith Community Policing Award 2025 Nomination Form – Tasmania Police
