Mr Cheng, 58, was shot at close range by 15 year-old gunman Farhad Khalil Mohammad Jabar on Friday evening outside police headquarters at Parramatta in Sydney’s west, where he had worked for 17 years.

“(He) was a kind, gentle, and loving person. He was humorous, generous of heart and always put the family first. He has set a tremendous example for us as a family,” his wife, Selina Cheng, and children Alpha and Zilvia said in a statement.

“We are deeply saddened and heartbroken that he has been taken from us, but we are truly grateful for the fruitful and happy life he has shared with us.”

The family said they had been “extremely moved” by the thoughts and condolences that had flooded in since the incident police have linked to terrorism.

“We are touched by the personal visit from the NSW Premier (Mike Baird) and the Police Commissioner (Andrew Scipione),” they said. “This was a comforting reminder of the warm regard that was held for him, especially by the NSW police community.

“He will be missed by all of us. We will cherish our memory of him forever.”

Jabar, who had been dressed in a loose-fitting black robe, was shot dead by officers shortly after the fatal attack on Mr Cheng.