Acting Superintendent Geoff Regan APM OAM has been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) recognising his service to the community through emergency response organisations.

A respected leader within the Western Australia Police Force and the broader community, Mr Regan has dedicated more than 30 years to public service, advocacy and leadership.

“I come from a family of strong military service, my grandfather served in the Second World War, my stepfather in Vietnam, my older brother served and my son currently serves in the ADF. Service was a value instilled in me from a very young age and that led me to join the WA Police Force in 1992.”  

Currently Acting Superintendent of the Aboriginal Affairs Division and Aide-de-Camp to the Governor of Western Australia, His Excellency the Honourable Governor Chris Dawson AC APM, Geoff has built a career grounded in service, integrity and creating meaningful change.

Reflecting on the recognition, Geoff said he was both surprised and humbled.

“To be recognised with an OAM is a great honour. I was shocked and surprised at the award and very humbled at the same time,” he says.

“You come to work and do your job. You don’t expect to get medals or recognition. I don’t see it as an award just for me, it is for my family and in part for my people.”

Throughout his career, Geoff has played an important role in supporting conversations, between institutions and First Nations communities.  

“I worked alongside the Governor when he was Police Commissioner and assisted him when he delivered his apology to Aboriginal people for their treatment by police. I also assisted the Governor in his historic apology to the Binjareb people for involvement of his predecessor in the Massacre at Pinjarra.”

In 2023, Geoff also became the first First Nations full-time employee in Government House’s 190-year history through his appointment as Aide-de-Camp to the Governor of Western Australia.

He said the recognition reinforces the importance of standing up, creating change and contributing to the community.

“This recognition will show that you can take a stand, make a difference and help bring about change,” he said.

For Geoff, the honour reflects not only his own contribution, but the people and communities who have supported him throughout his journey of service.

“It has been a great honour and privilege to serve and represent all West Australians.”