National Police Remembrance Day, recognised on September 29, saw forces across NSW and Australia stop and reflect on their careers.

Riverina Police District Commander Superintendent Bob Noble said the day, while different this year, was about "remembering police officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in protecting the community".

"There wouldn't be a member of the police force who doesn't know at least one person whose name is on the wall of remembrance in Sydney - it affects us all," he said.

"Fortunately in the Riverina this year, we haven't lost anyone in the line of duty, but it was only a couple of years ago that we did tragically lose one of our own, so we will always stop and remember him, his family and colleagues."

Across NSW, 274 police officers have lost their lives on the job.

"We can only stop and turn our minds to those reliving this grief today," Superintendent Noble said.

"It is a sombre occasion, but it is also a time to celebrate the work police do."

Superintendent Noble said 2020 had been a particularly challenging year, pushing officers to their limits.

"We have been pushed into other areas of the public safety dimension that we wouldn't normally fulfill," he said.

"We've stepped up to the mark and I think we've made a remarkable difference to the quality of life for those in the community and those suffering though the COVID-19 pandemic."

NSW Police Commissioner Michael Fuller attended an intimate ceremony in The Domain today, and said, despite having to physically distance, the police family came together to make sure their fallen colleagues were not forgotten.

"Sadly, we have another name to add to this list with young Constable Aaron Vidal, who had a bright future ahead of him, joining those who have come before him," he said.

"We ask the community to keep him, his family and all police families in your thoughts today and remember their service."

Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said the extraordinary events of this year have proven how crucial police officers are to the fabric of society.

"During the Black Summer bushfires, thousands of officers were involved in the relief effort, conducting lifesaving work for their communities," he said.

"The men and women in blue have also been on the frontline during the fight against COVID-19.

"These operations have played an enormous part in keeping our state safe and every officer in the force deserves thanks for their efforts this, and every year."

Police Association of NSW President Tony King added that the day of commemoration spanned beyond the 24 hour period.

"Although it may have been a small service this year, the ripple effect from these annual commemorations helps sustain is all throughout each year, remembering our fallen and going forward," he said.

"The Sydney Opera House will be lit up in blue tonight which really puts our service and sacrifice on centre stage."