on indulgence—I want to join the minister in saying that it was my great honour to attend the Police Bravery Awards last night at the Hyatt Hotel with AFP commissioner Krissy Barrett and Police Federation of Australia head Scott Weber and to hear the remarkable stories.

Bikash is based in Burwood in the electorate of Reid, but he also serves part of my electorate of Grayndler. To Senior Constable Bikash Bharati and his wife, who I had the opportunity of meeting as well—we need to remember that the families of police officers, just like the families of our Australian Defence Force, do a remarkable job—that was a story I well remember. I was with the Premier of New South Wales when that occurred. The actions that Senior Constable Bharati took were brave and extraordinary. Last night his speech about coming here as a migrant from Nepal and making a contribution to Australia, his new home, was very moving indeed.

Similarly, Andy Williams spoke on behalf of the 54 Queensland police officers about the siege that took place at Wieambilla, and the loss of life due to murder of Constable Matthew Arnold and Constable Rachel McCrow. He acknowledged that even more loss of life and injuries would have occurred if not for the bravery of so many police officers who were there that day. I attended the funeral of Constable Arnold and Constable McCrow, or the memorial service that was held. There is nothing more moving than the service of a farewell by fellow officers, and it was such a sad, sad occasion but very moving as well.

Those who wear blue are put their lives on the line every day and take risks. Indeed, while I was there, there was an alert, a security issue, at The Lodge, and Australian Federal Police officers visited The Lodge. Once again, we know that the security situation is very serious, which is why I do say turn down the heat across a range of issues. Queensland Police officers did a remarkable job on that day. I pay tribute to all those who were recognised last night, and I pay tribute to every single police officer right around this country who serves in the interests of their fellow Australians.