Concerns over police numbers being at 1980s levels may now be partly addressed, with 11 probationary constables allocated to the Richmond Police District.

The intake comes from the NSW Police Force Class 368, which passed out today as the largest graduating class in 13 years.

The new officers will report to stations across the state on Monday, May 4, beginning their first day as sworn police.

Richmond Police District’s allocation of 11 recruits is the largest in the Northern Region and, proportionately, one of the strongest allocations the district has received in recent years.

Neighbouring Tweed/Byron Police District will receive four probationary constables from the same class.

Exactly how many of the 11 officers will be based at Ballina is expected to announced next week.

Local staffing concerns

Today’s intake follows Ballina News Daily’s reporting on the local crime problems and claims of staffing shortfalls due to many local officers being on long-term health and stress leave.

Police union sources say numbers are still equivalent to 1980s levels, despite the fact the local population has doubled.

Ballina received two new officers from the previous graduation class, a number Ballina Shire Deputy Mayor Damian Loone described as “overdue but welcome”.

Diversity among the ranks 

Class 368 includes 259 men and 90 women, aged between 19 and 46.

The cohort includes 20 First Nations recruits and 39 born overseas, speaking 12 languages other than English.

Forty-nine probationary constables are part of the “Be a Cop in Your Home Town” recruitment initiative, allowing recruits to return to their local communities.

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley thanked recruits and their families for their commitment.

“To every officer attesting today, and every family standing behind them: thank you. NSW backs you, NSW is grateful, and we wish you a long, safe and rewarding career,” she said.

“Every one of these 350 officers represents more support for the frontline and more protection for communities right across the state.

“There is more to do, but the momentum is real – the last class broke a 13-year record, and this class has broken it again.”

Training continues on the job

The probationary constables will spend the next 12 months completing on-the-job training and distance education.

At the end of that period, they will graduate with an Associate Degree in Policing Practice and be confirmed to the rank of Constable.

Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said the recruits had already demonstrated discipline and commitment.

“It is my privilege today to welcome part of a new generation of officers who will shape the future of the NSW Police Force,” he said.

“I am proud to welcome the recruits to a career that will demand a lot of them but one that will make an impact.”