Rolfe’s Return to the Public Eye
Zachary Rolfe, the ex-NT police officer acquitted of murder in the 2019 shooting of 19-year-old Indigenous man Kumanjayi Walker, is scheduled to speak at the “Frontline Summit: Purpose in Service and Beyond” in Parramatta, NSW, on Saturday, June 21, 2025.
The summit aims to support first responders transitioning out of service, with organizers stating their goal is to “create a community, helping our colleagues find purpose in service and transition when leaving the job.
Rolfe is among eight speakers promoted for the event.
Speaking Fees and Public Backlash
Reports indicate that Rolfe has been offering his speaking services on topics such as leadership and ethical decision-making for fees up to $10,000. A now-deleted profile on a speakers’ bureau website described him as a “Soldier Policeman Hero.”
The announcement of his speaking engagement has sparked controversy, with a protest against black deaths in custody planned at Parramatta Square on the same day as the summit
Timeline of Key Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Nov 2019 | Kumanjayi Walker fatally shot during arrest in Yuendumu |
| Mar 2022 | Rolfe acquitted of murder charges in Supreme Court trial |
| 2022–2025 | Coronial inquest into Walker’s death conducted |
| July 7, 2025 | Findings from the inquest scheduled to be handed down |
| June 21, 2025 | Rolfe scheduled to speak at Frontline Summit in Parramatta |
Ongoing Inquest and Community Response
The coronial inquest into Walker’s death has revealed allegations of systemic racism within the NT Police, including claims about derogatory awards and text messages. The inquest’s findings are expected to be delivered on July 7, 2025.
Community members and advocacy groups continue to call for justice and systemic reforms, emphasizing the broader issue of Indigenous deaths in custody across Australia
Note: This article aims to present the facts surrounding Zachary Rolfe’s upcoming speaking engagement and the associated public response, providing context within the ongoing discussions about systemic issues in law enforcement and Indigenous communities in Australia.
