The first class of trainee police officers who have been paid to study has been sworn in and joined the NSW Police Force.
A ceremony was held at the Goulburn Police Academy on Friday (21 June) to attest class 362.
NSW Police said the 169 new probationary constables were the first to attest having been fully paid to study as part of their training.
The class comprises 122 men and 47 women, who will start work on 24 June and then complete 12 months’ on-the-job training and study by distance education.
Eighteen of the recruits will start work in the Southern region, which includes South East NSW. Of these, four will start on the South Coast, one in the Monaro, one in the Riverina, and two in the Hume.
“Congratulations to all 169 probationary constables on the dedication and professionalism you have shown throughout your training,” NSW Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said.
“We are paying recruits to study and have announced a suite of recruitment measures aimed at filling the 1500-plus vacancies we are carrying.”
Recipients of awards were honoured as part of the attestation parade, including Inspector Amy Scott, who was recognised for her actions at Bondi Junction on 13 April, 2024, and handed a Commissioner’s Valour Award for displaying exceptional bravery in a life-threatening situation.
Inspector Scott shot 40-year-old Queensland man Joe Cauchi after he killed six people in the junction’s Westfield shopping centre during a stabbing attack.
“[Inspector Scott] has been rightly labelled a hero. She was calm, decisive, and as a result she saved many lives,” NSW Premier Chris Minns said.
“She gives us all an example of what we ask of our police, many of whom are young, to walk into terrible situations as an ordinary part of their job.
“Congratulations to the 169 probationary officers graduating today. You have dedicated your lives to keeping the people of NSW safe. It is the very best definition of public service.”
NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb also congratulated the new probationary constables.
“To wear the uniform and serve the people of NSW is a great honour. I know full well the sense of pride and satisfaction you are feeling today,” she said.
“Policing is a job like no other, which takes special people, and I wish you all the very best in what will be an extremely rewarding career.”