Seventeen new probationary constables will “walk the beat” in Hunter police districts from next week.
Following Friday’s attestation ceremony at the Goulburn Police Academy, Newcastle City is the big local winner, with 10 recruits heading our way.
Hunter Valley will pick up a further three officers, with Lake Macquarie and Port Stephens-Hunter securing two apiece.
The NSW Government recently announced it was investing $583 million to introduce 1500 extra police over four years to enhance community safety across the state.
Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Taylor Martin welcomed the rookies to the Port Stephens-Hunter, Lake Macquarie, Newcastle City and Hunter Valley police districts.
“Some of the force’s newest probationary constables have elected to come back to serve this community,” he said.
“At the same time, others have chosen to start their careers in the Hunter district.
“On behalf of our community, I am pleased to be able to welcome our newest police officers.”
Class 346 included 149 men and 55 women.
Some recruits entered the NSW Police Academy straight from school or university, while others left established professional careers and trades.
They’ve completed eight months of foundational training and those allocated to commands will report to their stations from Monday 26 April.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott congratulated the newest recruits.
“Police officers perform a crucial role in protecting the community,” he said.
“As the probationary constables of Class 346 step into their law enforcement duties they can know that they have the full support of this government.
“I commend their choice to pursue a career in policing, where they will serve the community and keep this state safe.”
Twenty-two recruits were born overseas in countries including Pakistan, Syria and Colombia.
Many are from non-English speaking backgrounds, with seven of them fluent in a second language including Punjabi, Hungarian and Spanish.
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