158 new Probationary Constables will be sworn into the NSW Police Force today and will start at their new home stations across the state next week.

Class 361 attested at the Goulburn Police Academy following eight months of training in the Constable Education Program.

Four months by distance, four months at the Academy. They will now have 12 months on-the-job-training as a Probationary Constables. Communities across NSW will see the new boots on the ground on Monday:

• Central Metropolitan Region – 43
• Northwest Metropolitan Region – 36
• Southwest Metropolitan Region – 26
• Northern Region – 20
• Southern Region – 20
• Western Region - 13

Class 361 is the first cohort to make use of three new accommodation blocks opened by Minister Catley and Commissioner Webb in December, providing modern, clean and comfortable facilities for the Student Police Officers.

Last year, the NSW Government made the historic announcement that Student Police Officers will be paid to study at the Goulburn Police Academy.

Class 361 received a one-off payment, the amount of which was pro-rated to the date of the announcement.

Starting with the next cohort, Student Police Officers will receive a total salary of approximately $30,984 over the 16-week study period, including super and award-based allowances.

NSW Minister for Police and Counter-Terrorism Yasmin Catley said:

“Congratulations to all 158 attesting officers for their hard work and commitment. I wish you all a rich and rewarding career with the NSW Police Force.”

“A career in policing is like no other. These new recruits show a steadfast determination to serve and protect communities right across NSW.”

“The NSW Government backs our police 100%. We are committed to getting more boots on the ground and supporting the hardworking officers already on the beat. That’s why we’re paying recruits to study.”

NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb said:

“All 158 recruits graduating today, are embarking on an extraordinary journey and career.”

“Policing is a job where we all have the chance to make a difference to the community we’ve been entrusted to serve and protect.”

“These probationary constables are joining a strong, honourable and committed police force and I wish them the very best.”