AFP Legacy has continued to support the families of AFP members who lost their lives or suffered hardship while serving the community throughout 2024.
More than one-third of the AFP's members committed ongoing financial contributions to the charity in the 2023-24 financial year, reflecting the deep commitment of the AFP's community to care for colleagues and their families.
AFP Legacy was set up to provide support services and financial assistance to the families of AFP employees who pass away, on or off duty, whatever the circumstances, accident, injury or illness.
These efforts helped raise $480,000 for the period and of this, $193,000 has already been distributed directly to legatees, the families of deceased members, and to members in need of assistance throughout the year.
The donations, supplemented by fundraising activities, enabled AFP Legacy to provide assistance for a range of essential needs, including educational support to legatee children, counselling services for families and covering medical, funeral, Christmas or unexpected expenses faced by grieving families.
Since its inception AFP Legacy has supported 58 people.
AFP member Carla Babic has experienced first-hand the support provided by AFP Legacy and has shared the impact that has had on her family.
After the death of her husband, Mato Babic, last year (2023) AFP member Carla and their three sons were left grappling with grief and the practical realities of life without their husband and father.
AFP Legacy support is offered to members who lose loved ones, including those who are not members of the police force, In Carla's case, she works for the AFP and her late husband was a civilian.
Carla, from Canberra, said the emotional support and guidance provided by AFP Legacy had been life-changing for her family.
"The grief counsellor recommended by AFP Legacy for my son has been wonderful and helped him work through many of his anxieties after his father's passing," Carla said.
"Through the counselling sessions, we have been able to process our grief, find ways to cope with our loss, and ultimately, begin to heal.
"AFP Legacy also provided assistance with school fees, sports registrations and cleaning services.
"The financial support has been a tremendous help, allowing me to focus on caring for my sons without the added stress of financial strain. I am grateful for the work AFP Legacy does and the difference it made in our life during our time of need."
An important part of AFP Legacy's work has been the recognition that isolation and confusion is felt deeply by children who have gone through traumatic grief and loss. Throughout 2024, the not-for-profit has extended financial support to legatee children to attend camps aimed at building friendships with other children who have gone through a similar loss. The camps aim to break down barriers and ensure a nurturing and understanding place for growth, breaking patterns of isolation and stigma.
AFP Legacy board member Neil Gaughan said that Legacy was a not-for-profit organisation and relied on the generosity of donors, sponsorship and fundraising.
"AFP employees choose a career focused on serving and protecting the community. AFP Legacy protects and serves members and their families when they need it most," Mr Gaughan said.
"The journey for bereaved families is a long one and AFP Legacy is there every step of the way, however, it comes at a price. By donating to AFP Legacy, members and supporters are not just giving money - they are giving hope, support and a brighter future to families when they need it most.
"I would like to also extend gratitude to Police Bank as our major sponsor and our other corporate sponsors who, in 2024, contributed $33,000 towards Legatees and supported the fundraising Legacy Gala Ball."
AFP Legacy was first established in 2004 as the Chequered Ribbon Association to support police families in need.
