👋 Commissioner Karen Webb Farewelled in Goulburn Today

NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb was today officially farewelled in Goulburn, marking the culmination of an extraordinary 38-year career dedicated to the NSW Police Force.

On behalf of the NSW Government, heartfelt thanks were extended for her decades of unwavering self-sacrifice and service to the people of the state. Commissioner Webb is celebrated for being a pivotal force for change, achieving landmark reforms that will leave an enduring legacy on the NSW Police Force.

Joining the NSWPF in May 1987, she ascended through every rank, working across General Duties and Specialist Commands in both metropolitan and regional NSW. Her tenure saw the introduction of significant recruitment and retention measures, including a once-in-a-generation pay rise for officers, paid training for recruits, and established pathways for regional recruits to serve in the bush, along with avenues for experienced officers to transfer from interstate and New Zealand.

A notable aspect of Commissioner Webb's leadership was her steadfast commitment to addressing domestic and family violence. Under her command, the NSWPF established Australia's only Domestic and Family Violence Registry, placed a Domestic Violence Liaison Officer in every Police Area Command and District, and fostered stronger cooperation with WDVCAS workers.

Commissioner Webb's vision to modernise the force for the 21st century is expected to have a lasting impact on police operations and community safety. Her farewell was particularly fitting, taking place at an Attestation Parade for new recruits in Goulburn. She 'marched off' the parade ground a little over 38 years after she herself attested on the very same ground. The event also welcomed the largest class of recruits in over a decade, a direct result of her reforms.

Commissioner Webb leaves behind a remarkable and exemplary police career for which she can be immensely proud. The community and the NSW Police Force owe her a profound debt of gratitude.