Eight police dogs and their handlers will graduate alongside 200 new probationary constables at today’s Police Attestation ceremony in Goulburn.
Acting Police Commissioner David Hudson will swear-in the 200 new probationary constables, four detection police dogs and four general purpose police dogs who will be accompanied by their instructors.
The police dogs completed the NSW Police Detection and General Purpose Novice Courses in 2019 and 2021, but have not been able to graduate until now due to COVID restrictions.
The 200 probationary constables will be deployed to police stations across the state from next week (Monday 27 June 2022) where they will complete their year of onthe-job training. Deputy Premier and Minister for Police Paul Toole said every Attestation ceremony was a significant occasion for the Police Force and the community.“I congratulate our newest probationary constables, who will be deployed to areas where they are needed the most,” Mr Toole said.
In 2019 the NSW Government announced a record investment in police, with an additional 1500 officers over four years and committed $60 million to upgrade the Goulburn Police Academy.
“We are proud to offer our continued support to the NSW Police Force to ensure it has the very best people, training facilities, and technology to keep our communities safe,” Mr Toole said.
Acting Police Commissioner David Hudson said the ceremony was an important opportunity to recognise the commitment of Class 353, as well as their families and friends.
“Behind every police officer and every probationary constable is a family and a network that plays a critical role in supporting our people,” Acting Commissioner Hudson said.
“It’s more important than ever that we ensure our police have our utmost support so that they can enjoy long and successful careers.
“It’s also a unique and special occasion when we see new police dogs enter the Force. The value police dogs bring to policing – including criminal investigations and critical incident response is significant and should be recognised.”
Acting Assistant Commissioner Toby Lindsay said a career in policing was exciting and rewarding.
“As a probationary constable engaged in general duties policing you can expect to be working with and helping the community,” Acting AC Lindsay said. “You will also undertake a wide range of investigations including motor vehicle accidents, stealing offense, assaults and more.
“In addition to general duties policing, there are more than 100 specialist roles in support of our frontline police and community.”