In a significant leadership change, NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb has announced her resignation after three years at the helm, marking the end of a turbulent chapter for the state's police force. Webb, who made history as the first female police commissioner in New South Wales, will officially step down on September 30, 2025, leaving behind a legacy shaped by both challenges and reforms.
On May 7, 2025, Webb shared her decision to resign, stating, "I knew when the time was right I would know." She emphasized her desire to allow the state government ample time to recruit a new commissioner ahead of the upcoming election period, which is less than two years away. Interestingly, Webb had initially planned to make her announcement on May 18, commemorating her 38 years since entering the Goulburn Police Academy.
The announcement of her resignation was leaked prior to her intended date, prompting both Webb and the government to respond quickly. This unexpected twist adds to the already tumultuous nature of her tenure, which has been marked by significant scrutiny and challenges.
Webb's departure has sparked speculation regarding her successor, with several names emerging as potential candidates. Among them are Mel Lanyon, who heads the state's Reconstruction Authority; David Hudson, the deputy commissioner and counter-terrorism chief; and assistant commissioner Gavin Wood. In the interim, Deputy Commissioner Peter Thurtell has been earmarked to take over Webb's duties.
Michael Kennedy, a former detective who worked alongside Webb, described her resignation as a "tragedy" influenced by politically motivated media criticism. He noted, "Webb made changes for the better - not for her, but for the institution," highlighting her commitment to reforming the police force.
Premier Chris Minns praised Webb's four-decade career within the police force, stating, "Commissioner Webb has stood tall in moments of crisis, led significant reforms to policing and staunchly defended law and order in this state." Minns acknowledged her role as a trailblazer, both as the first female police commissioner and as a leader who implemented lasting changes.
Police Minister Yasmin Catley echoed these sentiments in parliament, affirming that Webb would remain in her role for several months to facilitate a thorough search for her successor. The urgency for a new leader is underscored by opposition police spokesman Paul Toole, who insisted that the next commissioner must be capable of instilling confidence in both the public and the police force.
Webb's time as commissioner has not been without its controversies. She faced significant criticism for her response to the fatal tasering of 95-year-old Clare Nowland in 2023, where her initial media release failed to mention the use of a Taser, instead describing the incident as one where Ms. Nowland "sustained injuries during an interaction with police." This incident drew public outrage and intensified scrutiny of her leadership.
Further complicating her tenure, Webb raised eyebrows in 2024 when she referenced a Taylor Swift lyric in response to questions regarding leadership concerns following the shooting deaths of two men by a serving police officer. Her comment, "haters are gonna hate," was perceived as dismissive and out of touch during a serious crisis.
Despite the challenges, Webb's tenure also included notable achievements. She addressed a critical shortage of police officers by announcing that recruits would be paid to train starting in late 2023. Additionally, she worked alongside Minister Catley to secure a substantial pay increase of up to 40 percent for rank-and-file officers in 2024, making them among the best paid police officers in Australia.
Webb's resignation comes on the heels of another significant leadership change in law enforcement, as former New Zealand Police Commissioner Mike Bush was appointed to lead Victoria Police, following the resignation of its commissioner in February 2025. This wave of changes within police leadership highlights a period of transition and potential reform across the region.
As the search for a new police commissioner begins, the NSW police force stands at a crossroads. The next leader will need to navigate the complexities of public trust, internal reforms, and the ongoing challenges that have plagued the force in recent years. With the state government under pressure to make a swift appointment, the implications of this leadership change will undoubtedly resonate throughout the community.
Looking ahead, the NSW police will be watching closely as the government seeks a successor who not only possesses the necessary qualifications but also the ability to communicate effectively with the media and the public. The next commissioner will play a crucial role in restoring confidence and guiding the police force through its next chapter.
