Today, AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw and our newest police recruits wish all Australians a safe and happy festive season.
The AFP welcomed 276 new recruits through the AFP's Barton Police College in 2022, including 70 former officers from state and territory police services, to help bolster the diversity and experience of the organisation.
They have hit the ground running and working to keep Australians safe. They are posted across locations across the continent from Exmouth in the north-west through to Alice Springs in the centre, and in capital cities across the Australian east coast.
Commissioner Kershaw said strengthening and supporting the frontline in 2022 was a critical component of combatting a complex criminal environment in order to keep Australians, and our region safe.
"This is a dynamic time for the AFP - and building our capacity and capability is even more important as we strive to protect the Australian community," Commissioner Kershaw said.
The AFP's newest recruits are working in a diverse range of roles and specialised areas including airport policing, community policing in the ACT, cybercrime, transnational organised crime, counter terrorism teams and money laundering investigations.
Commissioner Kershaw said the festive season was a time when we connected with loved ones, enjoyed days at the beach and relaxed after a busy year.
"You will see AFP officers at Australia's nine designated airports and I encourage you to say hello to our members. We are there to keep you safe these holidays," he said.
"To the children of Australia, I have just received intelligence that Santa is on his way! Finally, from the AFP family to yours, I wish you all a happy and safe festive season."
