New scheme to attract police to the bush
A new incentive scheme aimed at attracting more police to rural and remote communities will be rolled out by the NSW government from July.
The scheme will apply to 55 local government areas and Deputy Premier and Police Minister Paul Toole said the scheme was a commitment, not a promise, and will include higher pay, housing and reduced mandatory tenure periods.
Minister Toole said the incentive package would address the shortage of police in many remote communities and had the long-term goal of retaining police in rural locations for up to five years.
He said the scheme was already funded and was not just another election promise. The money will be split across five years - the timeframe police will be expected to at least serve out in the bush - in the form of annual amounts. It comes into effect on July 1 and replaces existing arrangements which see officers receive incentives up to $9,000 over five years.
“These new incentives are about encouraging police 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,” Minister Toole said.
“It rewards relocation and retention and gives officers the flexibility to invest these incentive payments in what matters to them and their families.
“It’s an investment in the police who work across large areas in some of the most remote parts of the State to keep their communities safe.” […]
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