The NSW Government will invest an extra $17 million over the next five years in recruitment incentives and more flexible study pathways, making it easier than ever for locals to choose a career in policing.

From January 1 2023, those looking to become a police officer in NSW will receive a $3,000 financial boost while studying on campus and have greater flexibility to work during distance learning sessions.

Member for Ku-ring-gai Alister Henskens SC said the landmark investment would strengthen the ranks of the NSW Police Force right across the State.

“Our men and women in blue do an incredible job day in, day out to protect and serve our community, and this announcement makes it easier for even more locals to join the ranks and knock down the financial barriers to training,” Mr Henskens said.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Police Paul Toole said the incentives announced today will ensure the Force’s ongoing strength into the future.

“This is about investing in the next generation in blue who will keep our community safe,” Mr Toole said.

“These new incentives put our recruits at the centre – cutting the cost of study and making it easier for them to work part or full time while they study online, putting $3,000 in their pocket while they’re training on-campus at Goulburn and turning out among the best paid probationary constables in the country.

“This builds on our investment of about $4.5 million a year towards scholarships of up to $9,500 for those who need financial support the most and will ensure every single recruit gets a financial boost.

“It’s part of a more than $100 million package of reforms designed to help recruit, retain and better take care of every member of the Force throughout their career.”

The new incentives for recruits from 2023 announced include:

• A $3,000 on-campus allowance during Session Two.
• Reducing the online entry level component of study, the University Certificate in Workforce Essentials (UCWE), from eight to four weeks to help recruits move into the Associate Diploma of Policing Practice sooner.
• Reducing the cost of the UCWE course from about $1,800 to $700 which recruits will now only enrol in after the recruitment assessment is complete.
• Introducing field placements as a key component of Session One learning, allowing recruits to experience operational scenarios and get a taste of the realities of being a police officer.

For more information about a career in the NSW Police Force, including an eligibility quiz, visit: https://www.police.nsw.gov.au/recruitment.