NSW Police officers who relocate to remote areas of the State are to receive cash incentives of up to $36,000 under a new scheme announced by the Minister for Police, Paul Toole.
Mr Toole said the incentives scheme, to be rolled out from 1 July, also promises more career development opportunities.
“These new incentives aren’t just about encouraging officers to move to the bush,” the Minister said, “it’s about encouraging them to stay in these communities for up to five years, building their capabilities and gaining incredible career experience in a job that is like no other in the Force.”
“It rewards relocation and retention and gives officers the flexibility to invest these incentive payments in what matters to them and their families,” Mr Toole said.
He said that under the current arrangements, an officer who transferred to Broken Hill Police Station would receive a one-off payment and additional incentives up to the value of $9,000 over five years.
Mr Toole said the new scheme would see this increase to $36,000 over five years split over annual payments.
“The new incentives scheme will apply to officers transferring to 55 communities classified as remote, special remote and remote offshore locations including Broken Hill, Hay, Wee Waa, Walgett, Wentworth and Coonamble,” he said.
“Officers currently attached to remote and special remote locations who have been stationed at those locations for more than five years will also benefit from a one-off payment of $4,300.”
Mr Toole said the new scheme also included housing provided by NSW Police at specific locations; reduced mandatory tenure periods to allow greater mobility opportunities for officers; and additional funding to support officers in remote areas to travel and build their capabilities and career.
