OTN Bangla, Australia:
Nepali-origin NSW Police officer Senior Constable Bikash Bharati has jointly received the 2026 National Bravery Award for his courageous actions during a public shooting at Croydon Park in Sydney. Despite coming under fire, he directed a junior colleague to safety and assisted an injured member of the public.
The Police Federation of Australia presented the award at a ceremony in Canberra on Wednesday, 28 October 2026. The Queensland Police Service was also recognised as a joint recipient.
Bharati, who serves with the Burwood Police Area Command, was among the first officers to respond to the shooting on 5 October 2025.
His actions under fire demonstrated courage and a commitment to protecting others in a dangerous and rapidly unfolding situation.
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon praised Bharati for putting his own safety aside during the incident.
“Senior Constable Bharati showed exceptional bravery, and his actions embodied the oath he undertook to protect and serve.”
— Mal Lanyon, NSW Police Commissioner
Commissioner Lanyon said Bharati exemplified the qualities and dedication demonstrated by police officers in their daily work.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also acknowledged Bharati’s courage and dedication to duty in Federal Parliament.
Bharati arrived in Australia from Nepal in 2015. Reflecting on the national honour, he said it was something he had never expected when he first came to the country.
He credited the support, training and trust of his colleagues, particularly the officers who responded alongside him during the Croydon Park shooting.
“While my name may be on the award, policing is never an individual effort.”
— Senior Constable Bikash Bharati
Bharati also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve a country and community that had welcomed him.
“I am proud to wear the uniform, proud to serve alongside such dedicated men and women and grateful for this incredible honour,” he said.
Bharati’s recognition highlights the courage, teamwork and mutual trust involved in protecting communities. It also reflects the contributions of officers from diverse cultural backgrounds serving across Australia.
His journey from Nepal to Australian public service, and the national recognition of his actions, marks a proud moment for the Nepali-Australian community.
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