02/11/2026
Vale Andrew who appeared on stage at Spotswood Kingsville RSL in March this year for the Paws 🐾 Pints & PTSD night. Andrew was also Vice President of Seaford RSL and deployed overseas to East Timor on International Deployment, Peace Keeping Mission where he was seriously injured by being stabbed.
A true gentleman and an absolute giver. A mate very sadly missed. Condolences 💐 to family, friends and colleagues.
RSL Victoria
Vale Andrew 'Atto' Atkinson, Veteran Detective Inspector 29259 | Veteran Peer Support Officer (VPSO)
It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of our friend, colleague and fellow veteran, Andrew 'Atto' Atkinson.
Atto joined Victoria Police in 1991 and served until his retirement from ill health in 2018, having attained the rank of Detective Inspector. Throughout his career, he performed a range of operational duties and undertook an overseas deployment to Timor-Leste as a peacekeeper. It was during that deployment that Atto sustained life-changing injuries which had a profound and lasting impact on his health.
We could not tell Atto's story any better than he could himself. We encourage everyone to take a few moments to watch this video and hear his story in his own words:
Watch Atto's story https://vimeo.com/810006721
As you watch, remember a man who was so much more than his injuries or the challenges he faced. Atto was a true champion – kind, generous, funny, compassionate and loving. He had an extraordinary capacity to give to others, often while managing considerable challenges of his own.
A personal tribute from David McGowan, former CEO and current Board member of Police Veterans Victoria;
"I first met Atto when he attended one of our early Veteran Peer Support Officer courses. It didn't take long for him to become an active and passionate peer supporter, as well as a regular presenter to police recruits at the Academy each fortnight, alongside his sidekicks, Sophie and Kev.
Nothing was ever too much trouble for Atto. Whether it was presenting to police groups, service organisations or fellow veterans, or responding to someone in need of peer support, he gave his time and himself without hesitation. There were occasions when he would turn up at the Academy just days after being discharged from hospital. That was Atto. His commitment to others, and to the veteran community, was extraordinary.
He quickly became an integral part of the PVV team and his contribution will be deeply missed. None more so than by me. Goodbye, my friend. I will always remember you."
At just 57 years of age, Atto has left us far too soon.
Today, we remember Andrew 'Atto' Atkinson, honour his service to Victoria Police and acknowledge the enormous contribution he made to his fellow veterans and their families. He understood what it meant to stand beside someone when they needed it most. He did that for so many, and his legacy will live on in the people he helped and the lives he touched.
Rest peacefully, Atto. Thank you for your service, your friendship and everything you gave to others. You will not be forgotten.
This news will impact many people - if you feel you need support reach out to those closest to you, or contact us E: [email protected]
