Krissy Barrett has been appointed AFP Commissioner, the first woman in the top job. Photo: AFP.
Australian Federal Police Deputy Commissioner Krissy Barrett has been promoted to the force’s top job and will take over as Commissioner in October.
She will replace Reece Kershaw, who is retiring a year early.
Ms Barrett will be the ninth AFP Commissioner but the first female to be appointed to the role.
Anthony Albanese noted the significance of the appointment and emphasised Ms Barrett’s record when making the announcement on Monday (4 August).
“This will be a historic appointment for the AFP, with Ms Barrett becoming the first woman to hold the position of Commissioner,” the Prime Minister said.
“Bringing close to 25 years of law enforcement experience to the position, Ms Barrett is recognised for her leadership capability.
“She also has expertise in community policing and operations, counter terrorism first response, serious financial crime, and transnational serious and organised crime.
“In her most recent position as a Deputy Commissioner with the AFP, Ms Barrett has managed the National Security portfolio.”
For her distinguished service to the Solomon Islands and Bali Bombings investigation, Ms Barrett was recognised for her leadership and contribution with a Police Overseas Service Medal in 2004 and an Operations Medal in 2005.
Her five-year appointment will start on 4 October 2025.
“The government thanks Mr Reece Kershaw APM for his decades of service and commitment to protecting Australians and Australia’s interests, including six years as AFP Commissioner,” Mr Albanese said.
“We wish him and his family all the best for the future. He has made an extraordinary contribution to public life, and we are grateful for his service.”
Ms Barrett said she never imagined that “one day I would be leading this fine organisation” and said she would “do this uniform proud”, while adding that AFP members made her proud every day.
“You make me proud every day with your dedication and your selflessness,” she said, talking directly to the AFP workforce.
“You run towards the danger. You see the worst of humanity, yet you still come to work day-in, day-out, because of your commitment to service.
“To all of you, I promise I will be your champion. I promise I will do this uniform proud for you.”
The Coalition congratulated the incoming Commissioner on her appointment, with Opposition Leader Sussan Ley also describing it as historic, being the first woman to lead the AFP.
“With more than 20 years’ experience in the AFP, including in counter terrorism and as Deputy Commissioner, Ms Barrett is well-equipped to lead the AFP in its important work in defending Australia’s national security,” Ms Ley said.
“We thank the departing Commissioner, Mr Reece Kershaw APM, who has tirelessly served the Australian community for more than 30 years, including almost six years as the head of the AFP, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”
Original Article published by Chris Johnson on Region Canberra.
