Deputy Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon has been appointed as the new head of the NSW Police Force, succeeding Commissioner Karen Webb. The announcement is set to be made by Premier Chris Minns and Police Minister Yasmin Catley on the morning of Wednesday, March 20, 2024. Lanyon, a well-regarded figure among officers, has been with the force since 1987 and previously led the state crime command before his promotion to deputy commissioner in January 2019.
Lanyon’s journey to this position has not been without controversy. His attempt to secure the commissioner role in 2022 was hindered by reports of an incident in which he was found lying on a footpath and allegedly became aggressive towards a paramedic following an alcohol-related police event in Goulburn the previous year. Since April 2024, he has served as the CEO of the Reconstruction Authority, a role that Commissioner Webb extended for an additional two years.
Deputy Commissioner’s Recent Remarks
Just last week, Lanyon reflected on his actions during a New Year’s Eve event in 2023, stating that he should have considered the appropriateness of taking his wife and two friends aboard a police boat on Sydney Harbour. His comments were featured in an interview with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), where he expressed regret over the situation.
Despite past challenges, Premier Minns praised Lanyon’s performance, particularly noting his leadership during his tenure at the natural disaster management agency. Last Thursday, Minns emphasized that Lanyon had done a “sterling job” in that capacity, indicating that his past controversies did not diminish his suitability for the commissioner role.
As Lanyon prepares to take up his new responsibilities, the NSW Police Force faces ongoing scrutiny on various fronts, including community relations and police conduct. His appointment signals a renewed focus on leadership within the force, as he is expected to address these challenges head-on.
The transition comes at a critical time for law enforcement in New South Wales, particularly in light of recent high-profile incidents that have raised questions about accountability and public trust. Lanyon’s leadership style and previous experiences will be closely watched as he steps into this pivotal role.
