The NSW Police Force has welcomed 192 new probationary constables after they were sworn in at the NSW Police Academy in Goulburn today (Friday 18 June 2021).
Family and friends were able to watch on as Class 347 attested in a full ceremony that featured the Police Band, Pipe Band, Mounted Unit and VIP cycles.
Class 347 includes 137 men and 55 women who will undertake a year of on-the-job training and complete the Associate Degree in Policing Practice by distance education with Charles Sturt University before being confirmed to the rank of constable.
The newest recruits were congratulated by Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott in Goulburn.
"Joining the NSW Police Force is a proud moment and represents the start of what I hope will be a long and successful career for all of our recruits," Mr Elliott said.
"Class 347 has the full support of the NSW Government and we wish them well as they step into their duties to uphold the law and serve and protect the community."
NSW Police Force Commissioner Mick Fuller APM welcomed the 192 probationary constables.
"Our newest recruits will be a valuable addition to our policing capabilities across the state," Commissioner Fuller said.
"As they begin at their new stations from Monday, I am confident they will step up to the challenges faced by our officers every day and play a vital role in keeping NSW safe as we enter the second half of 2021.
"A career in the police force offers many opportunities and rewards, so I want to encourage our newest officers to enjoy and be proud of the crucial role they play in our communities."
Education and Training Commander, Assistant Commissioner Peter Barrie, acknowledged the hard work of Class 347 and congratulated them on their attestation.
"After eight months of preparation and commitment, this ceremony marks the day our recruits become police officers – a significant milestone for them and their families," Assistant Commissioner Barrie said.
FACTS AND FIGURES ABOUT CLASS 347
A total of 192 recruits are being sworn in today.
The class comprises 137 men and 55 women.
The students will attest with the rank of probationary constable. Recruits will report to their stations for work from Monday 21 June 2021.
They will then complete 12 months' on-the-job training and study by distance education with Charles Sturt University. They officially graduate with an Associate Degree in Policing Practice once they have passed all academic and operation standards. The officers will then be confirmed to the rank of constable.
Of the probationary constables attesting today, 171 were born in Australia and 21 were born overseas. Their countries of origin include New Zealand, Philippines, China, the UK and South Africa.
Seven recruits are indigenous, with 1 recruit joining through the Indigenous Police Recruitment Our Way Delivery (IPROWD) program.
Class 347 comprises:
- 18-20 – 23
- 21-25 – 86
- 26-30 – 50
- 31-35 – 16
- 36-40 – 8
- Over 40 – 9
For interviews with recruits going to specific areas, please contact the relevant Regional Media Officer or PAC/PD directly from next Monday (21 June 2021).
