UPDATE: A record-breaking 341 new police recruits were sworn in at the Goulburn Police Academy on December 12, 2023, marking a significant milestone for the NSW Police Force. This event, attended by approximately 3,000 family members and friends, has been hailed as the largest class in over a decade, signaling a positive trend in recruitment efforts for the state’s under-resourced police department.
Traffic came to a standstill around Goulburn as attendees flocked to witness the historic ceremony. Newly appointed NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon presided over the event, his first since taking office. Lanyon emphasized the importance of this influx of recruits, stating,
“Seeing 341 brilliant young people joining the police force is a real vindication that this is a true profession that people should join.”
The ceremony featured a vibrant display as recruits marched onto the parade ground, accompanied by mounted police, bagpipes, and drums. As the class was officially dismissed, 341 hats flew into the air, symbolizing the culmination of their training and the beginning of their journey as probationary constables starting Monday, December 15.
NSW Police Minister Yasmin Catley MP highlighted the government’s commitment to modernizing the police workforce, pointing to a remarkable 70% increase in applications since the introduction of paid training for recruits. Catley noted,
“The commissioner and I are just delighted to be here today.”
This ceremony not only celebrates the hard work and dedication of the new recruits but also reflects the ongoing efforts to attract talent to the police force. As the community welcomes these new officers, the impact of their service will resonate throughout Goulburn and beyond.
Stay tuned for further updates as these recruits begin their duties and embark on their careers in law enforcement.
