Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott today welcomed 159 new probationary constables to the ranks of the NSW Police Force following a private attestation ceremony at the Goulburn training academy.
Mr Elliott said the brave men and women of Class 341, who will soon be assigned to Police Districts and Area Commands across the State, have completed their training during extraordinary times.
“These recruits join the strong police family of more than 17,000 officers at a significant time as state continues to face a global pandemic,” Mr Elliott said.
“I wish every single recruit my best wishes as they take their oath to proudly serve the community in what will be a rewarding yet challenging career. We owe each of them the greatest amount of respect and gratitude for their commitment to put themselves in harm’s way to keep us safe.”
“One student in particular, David Silburn, was originally part of Class 340, but was seriously burned during the horrific bushfires in January as a RFS volunteer. He returned to complete his training and attests today, a testament of his resilience and courage.”
“Due to the current social distancing rules, these recruits have not had the send-off they deserve. I’m working with the Commissioner to ensure that all the recruits who attest during the COVID-19 period will be celebrated and honoured once restrictions ease further.”
New South Wales Police Commissioner Mick Fuller welcomed the 159 new recruits into the policing family.
“Our newest police officers come to a career in policing at a significant time. We are still in recovery from the recent drought and bushfires and still staring down the threat of COVID-19.
“They are a welcome addition to police area commands and police districts across the state and to the community of New South Wales,” Commissioner Fuller said.
Class 341 comprises 42 female and 117 male officers, 41.5 percent are aged between 21 and 25, and six of the recruits are joining the police force aged over 40.
Significantly, 19 recruits were born overseas in countries including Wales, New Zealand, Lebanon and Nepal, reflecting the diverse communities they will serve. Four recruits are Indigenous with one coming through the Indigenous Police Recruitment Our Way Delivery (IPROWD) program.
The NSW Government has invested $583 million to introduce 1,500 extra police over the next four years, the biggest investment in police for more than 30 years.
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