(L-R) Dectective Inspector Mitch Deboski, Assistant Commissioner Dave Wadell, Minister Yasmin Catley and Superintendent Chad Gillies,  with some of the new Probationary Officers at Wyong Police Station.

7 May 2025

 

THE new Probationary Constables are part of a record breaking cohort of 302 graduates, who attested at the Goulburn Police Academy on Friday, May 2, marking a significant step in strengthening the safety and security of communities across New South Wales.

 

Class 365 successfully completed the Constable Education Program (CEP), an intensive eight-month training initiative combining four months of remote study with four months of hands-on learning at the Goulburn Academy.

 

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism and Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said, "We are incredibly proud of Class 365 as they begin what we hope will be a rich and rewarding career with the NSW Police Force.

 

“These Probationary Constables are stepping up with the integrity, courage and commitment that communities across NSW rely on.

 

“The NSW Labor Government backs our police every step of the way and wishes Class 365 all the best as they head into the field.

 

"I particularly congratulate and welcome the new recruits joining the Hunter, who will make a meaningful impact through their hard work and dedication."

 

Each officer will undertake 12 months of on-the-job training while holding the rank of Probationary Constable, allowing them to gain practical experience in frontline policing while continuing their professional development.

 

The recruits will be deployed in general duties policing, where they will respond to real-world incidents and emergencies, working shoulder to shoulder with experienced officers to build their skills and confidence.

 

Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said, “I want to welcome the 16 newest police recruits to the Central Coast and wish them the best in their new career becoming the leaders of the future within our community.

 

“These officers will develop new skills and gain individual experiences in their new career.

 

“This is a huge achievement to each of you as serving the community is very rewarding and challenging at the same time.”

 

Class 365 received payment to train at the Academy, following the Minns Labor Government’s historic announcement to pay recruits to train.

 

The Minns Labor Government’s work to support NSW Police officers and address the chronic shortage of police officers presided over by the former Liberal National Government has also included:

 

• abolishing the wages cap;

 

• setting up a historic new scheme to pay students to study to become an officer, which has already seen applications surge by 70 per cent over the previous year; and

 

• two recently announced programs specifically aimed at attracting both experienced officers and regional recruits.

 

NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb APM said that the class demonstrates a major turning point in recruitment for the NSW Police Force. "It's the biggest class in 11 years with more than 300 recruits marching off the parade ground, which is a milestone in our campaign to boost the ranks," she said.

 

"Based on the weekly average, the number of applications has increased by 70% since November 2023 when I announced the new payment scheme for all recruits.

 

"Many of our new probationary officers would not be here today to reach their dream of becoming a police officer without that wage.

 

"Since November 2023, we have seen a 33% increase from female applicants which is a critical addition to the force."

 

The rollout of the new Probationary Constables aligns with the launch of the Elite Athlete Recruitment Pilot Program, which aims to attract top athletes to policing by recognising valuable traits such as discipline, resilience, and teamwork.

 

This initiative offers athletes flexible work arrangements, allowing them to balance their policing duties with training and competition.

 

It's another significant step toward making the NSWPF a modern and adaptable career path.

 

Member for Gosford Leisl Tesch said, “Congratulations to the recruits who have graduated in Class 365. Getting to this point reflects commitment, determination and resilience, and I wish all new graduates all the best at the beginning of a rewarding career.

 

“It is fantastic to welcome 16 new officers joining the ranks on the Central Coast who will play a key role in keeping our community safe.

 

“The Minns Labor Government is backing our police and delivering real results for the Central Coast.”

 

Member for the Entrance David Mehan said, “I am proud to welcome the 16 new probationary constables to the Central Coast community.

 

“Their arrival is a great step forward in strengthening our local police force and enhancing the safety and wellbeing for everyone on the coast.

 

“To the new constables, congratulations on this massive achievement. Your commitment to making our community safe does not go unnoticed and I commend you for your dedication.”

 

While strong progress has been made in the way of recruitment and retention, the work is far from done and the NSW Government remains steadfast in its commitment to achieving more.

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