PLEASE NOTE: A full copy of the Independent Cultural Review can be found on this link: Hightail: https://spaces.hightail.com/receive/LWRMijVVGS
The NSW Police Force has today (Thursday 11 June 2026), released the Independent Cultural Review, accepting all 29 recommendations.
The release coincides with initiatives already underway to build a fairer and safer workplace.
The 29 recommendations are across seven key themes:
- Trusted leadership;
- Attraction, recruitment and the Academy;
- Talent development and career progression;
- Flexibility in a modern organisation;
- Addressing harmful behaviours;
- Support and care; and
- Modern systems.
A detailed and prioritised implementation plan is being developed which will be overseen by the independent Audit and Risk Committee.
The Review was established in 2024 by former NSW Police Force Commissioner Karen Webb and was undertaken by former Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commissioner Kristen Hilton.
The Review looked at leadership, diversity and inclusion, recruitment and promotion, and systems for preventing and responding to harmful behaviours. It did not investigate individual allegations.
More than 5000 current and former staff both sworn and unsworn, engaged with the Review, either in face-to-face interviews, online surveys, written submissions or group discussions.
Key findings include:
- variability in leadership capability and connection with staff;
- concerns regarding workplace behaviour and confidence in reporting;
- a need to improve flexibility and modern workforce practices; and
- the impact of policing on wellbeing and retention.
Examples of initiatives already underway to address the key themes, include:
- a review of the promotions process;
- the development of a leadership framework;
- a review of the recruitment process;
- a focus on harmful behaviours through a two-year program designed to educate and stop these behaviours happening; and
- a continued investment in mental health and critical incident support.
NSW Police Force Commissioner Mal Lanyon said the Review represented an important and timely snapshot of the organisation, which would be used to drive ongoing improvement.
"The NSW Police Force is a great place to work, with our people doing extraordinary work every day," Commissioner Lanyon said.
"We are seeing encouraging signs when it comes to recruitment and retention, with initiatives that are already underway.
"I want to thank our people for participating in the Review and for their willingness to speak openly about their experiences.
"I understand for some, it's been a difficult and challenging process, but their input has provided a valuable base for future action.
"There is no place for harmful behaviours within our organisation.
"Equally we must provide an environment where people feel safe to come forward."
Commissioner Lanyon also thanked Kristen Hilton and her team for the work they had undertaken.
"As Commissioner, I'm committed to ensuring our organisation implements the recommendations made by Ms Hilton in the Review to ensure that we continue to improve," Commissioner Lanyon said.
"There is already a significant amount of work underway to address some of the key issues raised, but there's more to do.
"We will continue to listen, assess progress, and adjust our approach where needed."
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley thanked those who shared their experiences as part of the Review.
"I want to acknowledge everyone who came forward to participate in this Review," Minister Catley said.
"For many, sharing their experience would have been difficult. Their willingness to speak up is critical in bringing these matters to light and allowing us to do better.
"We are taking this seriously because it's important work.
"I am pleased Commissioner Lanyon has accepted all recommendations. This is an opportunity to strengthen police culture and conditions for the thousands of officers who serve our state.
"I also want to thank Kristen Hilton for her extensive work and recommendations which provide a clear pathway for meaningful reform."
Lead Reviewer Kristen Hilton said the Independent Cultural Review was a chance for the NSW Police Force to bring about meaningful change.
"I want to acknowledge the many officers and staff who contributed to the Review," Ms Hilton said.
"Their willingness to share difficult experiences reflects a genuine commitment towards change.
"We know that 'culture' is not off to the side – but it directly impacts on the performance of the organisation, and how well people are able to fulfill their essential role.
"Now is the time for the NSW Police Force to futureproof the organisation through necessary reform.
"The acceptance of all the recommendations shows a commitment to building a healthier, more inclusive and more transparent organisation."
The Review will be publicly available on the NSW Police Force website from 10.30am today (Thursday 11 June 2026).
