A seasoned police officer will return to his roots as he prepares to lead Australia’s largest police force. Mal Lanyon, a veteran with 37 years of experience, is set to be formally appointed as the New South Wales (NSW) Police Commissioner on September 27, 2023, succeeding the retiring Karen Webb. Lanyon began his career patrolling Sydney’s inner west, where he will also hold his appointment ceremony at the Balmain police station.
His selection was announced on September 24, 2023. The decision raised eyebrows, particularly after past incidents involving Lanyon prompted Premier Chris Minns to assert that the state’s top law enforcement officer need not be “lily-white.” Lanyon’s introductory media conference was dominated by inquiries regarding a 2021 incident near the Goulburn police academy, where he was found intoxicated and verbally abusive towards ambulance personnel. Another controversy arose following an invitation extended to his wife and friends to join him at a command post on Sydney Harbour during New Year’s Eve celebrations in 2023. Lanyon expressed regret for both situations.
Despite these challenges, Lanyon triumphed over notable contenders for the role, including Acting Commissioner Peter Thurtell, Assistant Commissioner Gavin Wood, and Deputy Commissioner David Hudson. Since his appointment as deputy commissioner in 2019, Lanyon has played a crucial role in leading the NSW Reconstruction Authority, especially during the flood recovery efforts in the Northern Rivers region in 2022.
As the new commissioner, Lanyon will oversee more than 16,000 sworn officers and manage an annual budget of approximately $5.6 billion. He faces significant challenges, including a surge in gangland shootings and a public perception issue stemming from high-profile incidents that marred Webb’s tenure. Notable controversies include the tasering of Clare Nowland, a 95-year-old great-grandmother, and the tragic murder of a Sydney couple by a former police officer.
Lanyon’s return to his original posting signifies not only a personal milestone but also a pivotal moment for the NSW Police, as they navigate pressing challenges in law enforcement and community relations. As he embarks on this new chapter in his career, all eyes will be on Lanyon to see how he addresses the complex landscape of policing in New South Wales.
