A record number of officers recruited from interstate and New Zealand on Friday started new careers with the NSW Police Force today.
Twenty-one officers from Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, Northern Territory, the Australian Federal Police and New Zealand attested at Sydney Olympic Park as part of the Professional Mobility Program.
The recruitment program incentivises experienced serving police officers from other jurisdictions to join the NSW Police Force while keeping their equivalent rank: up to Senior Constable level six.
The program has made it easier and more attractive for police officers to continue their career in NSW while using and building on their previous skills and expertise.
Previously, officers who wanted to enrol were required to undertake eight months of training and start over at the rank of Probationary Constable.
The new Professional Mobility Program requires officers to complete a condensed 12-week, face-to-face training course that includes academic lessons, weapons, driver training and fitness.
Graduates then undertake six months of on-the-job training as a Probationary Constable before assuming their previous rank.
On Monday, ten recruits will go to the northern region, three will be based in the south-west metropolitan region, and two each will be stationed in the central metropolitan, north-west metropolitan, southern and western regions.
Premier of NSW Chris Minns welcomed the experienced new officers to the state.
“Very few workplaces can put out a call and have people pack up their lives – cross states and countries – to answer it. But the NSW Police Force can and today 21 exceptional officers have done exactly that,” Mr Minns said.
“For every new recruit entering the Goulburn Police Academy, there are now 21 role models to look up to – bringing with them experience, diverse perspectives and a deep commitment to public service.
“I’m proud to be building a stronger police force for our state. We welcome these officers to NSW and wish them long, successful careers and fulfilling lives here.”
Minister for Police and Counter-Terrorism Yasmin Catley said the program was just one of the successful strategies used to recruit more police.
“Today’s graduates weren’t just new recruits – they’re seasoned professionals from across Australia and New Zealand who’ve chosen to make NSW their home,” Ms Catley said.
“This is more than a career move – this is a life decision and it speaks volumes about the strength and reputation of the NSW Police Force.
“With paid study, historic pay rises and new pathways to help regional recruits stay close to home, there’s never been a better time to join. We’re proud to welcome these officers to the NSW police family today.”
Deputy Commissioner for Corporate Services Dean Smith said this second graduating class of recruits was testament to the success of the Program.
“Today we see 21 Professional Mobility Program recruits graduate in New South Wales after having started their policing careers at other Australian and New Zealand policing jurisdictions,” Mr Smith said.
“After they have successfully completed their probationary period, they will be fully accredited and trained to serve the people of New South Wales.
“Each of these officers brings invaluable past experience from each of their individual jurisdictions, and we are delighted they have demonstrated a commitment to serve the people of New South Wales.
“This program is providing a boost to police numbers which will greatly help us best serve our communities.”
Since the launch of the Professional Mobility Program, 104 applications have been received from officers across Australia and New Zealand.
In addition, the introduction of paid study in November, 2023 has sparked nearly 4600 applications to join the NSW Police Force – a 72 per cent increase on previous figures.
NSW Police Media
