The NSW Government is proud to welcome 331 new Probationary Constables to the NSW Police Force, marking a significant investment in the safety and security of communities across the state.
Class 365 officially attested at the Goulburn Police Academy on Friday, May 2 and these new recruits have now commenced duties at their new home stations across the state.
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.
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.
A total of 6 new Probationary Constables have been allocated to Campbelltown City Police Area Command, which serves the communities of the Campbelltown electorate and plays a vital role in maintaining public safety in the region.
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.
Class 365 consists of 247 men and 84 women, with recruits recognized for academic and physical achievements. Six dogs from the NSWPF Dog Unit will also graduate, highlighting the vital role of canine officers.
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.
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.
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.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said:
"We are so proud of Class 365 as they begin what we hope is a rich and rewarding career with the NSW Police Force. These Probationary Constables are stepping up with the integrity, courage and commitment NSW communities depend on.
"Class 365 have benefitted from paid study and they are now stepping into one of the best paid police forces in the country – a direct result of our historic wage deal.
"The NSW Labor Government backs our police every step of the way. We wish Class 365 all the best as they head out into the field - ready to serve and protect communities right across NSW."
NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb APM said:
"This 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."
"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."
Member for Campbelltown Greg Warren said:
"I want to congratulate and welcome the new recruits. I’m confident they’ll play an important role in making a real difference in our community.
"Every officer has a part to play in keeping our community safe. These recruits will undoubtedly make a meaningful impact through their hard work and commitment."
