In a significant development for the New South Wales Police Force, Commissioner Karen Webb has announced her resignation, effective September 30, 2025. This decision, revealed in Parliament by Police Minister Yasmin Catley on May 7, comes just three years into her five-year tenure, making Webb the first woman to lead the state’s police force since her appointment in February 2022.
Webb's departure follows a tenure marked by both notable achievements and considerable controversies. "She has been a force for change and reform focused on the safety and wellbeing of the NSW Police Force," Catley stated, praising Webb's contributions to the organization. Over the past three years, Webb has been involved in significant reforms, including negotiating a historic pay rise for officers and establishing the Domestic and Family Violence Registry.
Despite these accomplishments, Webb's time in office has not been without challenges. Her leadership faced scrutiny during several high-profile incidents, particularly the fatal tasering of 95-year-old Clare Nowland in 2023. Following the incident, Webb was criticized for her delayed media response and her decision not to view the bodycam footage, stating, "I don't see it necessary that I actually view it." This comment drew backlash from the public and media alike.
Additionally, Webb's handling of the investigation into the alleged double murder of Jesse Baird and Luke Davies by a serving officer also raised eyebrows. During this time, she controversially thanked the accused for his cooperation, stating, "I'd like to say, also, that this information did come with the assistance of the accused, for which we're very grateful and I'm sure the families are very grateful." In response to the criticism she faced, Webb remarked, "There will always be haters. Haters like to hate. Isn't that what Taylor [Swift] says?" This comment further fueled the public's discontent with her leadership.
Webb's tenure also included a notable pay increase for officers of up to 40%, making them among the best-paid police in Australia. This deal aimed to improve job-sharing arrangements, particularly benefiting parents within the force. However, the backdrop of officer shortages and the need for new recruits to be paid to train from late 2023 complicated her leadership narrative.
In her resignation statement, Webb expressed that her decision came after discussions with her family. She emphasized the importance of allowing the government sufficient time to recruit and appoint a new commissioner ahead of the upcoming election period, which is less than two years away. "I knew when the time was right I would know, and I wanted to give the State Government time to recruit and appoint a new Commissioner going into an election period in less than two years' time," Webb said.
As part of the transition, Catley confirmed that Deputy Commissioner Peter Thurtell will serve as the interim Commissioner during the recruitment process. This move is seen as a stabilizing measure for the force, which has faced increased pressure for effective leadership amid ongoing scrutiny.
Webb's resignation has elicited mixed reactions within the political landscape. Opposition Leader Mark Speakman thanked her for her long service, stating, "I thank Commissioner Webb for her long and loyal service in her various roles in the NSW Police Force. Our police do an extraordinary job and deserve strong, steady leadership." Meanwhile, the state opposition has expressed concern over the timing of her departure, urging the government to act swiftly in appointing her successor.
Throughout her career, Webb has been a trailblazer, not only as the first female police commissioner but also for her commitment to reforming the police force. However, her tenure has also been characterized by public relations missteps and controversies that have overshadowed her achievements.
As the search for her successor begins, the NSW Police Force stands at a crossroads, with many hoping for a leader who can navigate the complexities of modern policing while restoring public confidence in the institution. Webb leaves behind a legacy that includes both significant reforms and the challenges of managing a police force under scrutiny.
In the coming weeks, Webb will mark 38 years of service in law enforcement, a career that has undoubtedly shaped the landscape of policing in New South Wales. Her decision to step down allows for a new chapter in the history of the NSW Police Force, one that will require a leader capable of addressing both the pressing issues of today and the evolving needs of the community.
