A fifth Deputy Commissioner role in NSW Police has been created to oversee and coordinate emergency services’ response to future natural disasters right across the State.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Police Paul Toole said Deputy Commissioner Peter Thurtell APM has been appointed Deputy Commissioner, Emergency Management.
“The creation of this new role delivers on one of the key recommendations of the independent Flood Inquiry and is another step on the path to ensuring NSW is better positioned to prepare for, respond and recover the next time a disaster strikes,” Mr Toole said.
“Whether it’s a flood, a bushfire or any other major emergency, Deputy Commissioner Thurtell will be tasked with helping all emergency services respond to these situations as efficiently and effectively as possible.
“Over the years, Government has often turned to a senior Police officer to lead and co-ordinate disaster management through some of the State’s darkest days. This role will ensure that structure is in place from the start and focused on delivering a streamlined approach to deliver the best outcome for communities, inside and outside of disaster situations.
“As the State Emergency Operations Controller (SEOCON), Deputy Commissioner Thurtell has proven he has the experience, skills and stamina to lead NSW Police and the community through the most challenging of times.”
NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb said the appointment of a fifth Deputy Commissioner will strengthen and reinvigorate the Force, while helping to ensure community safety is a key priority.
“We have seen over the last three years that the world we live in continues to evolve and, more than ever, there is a need to be prepared and adaptable to the changing needs of the community,” Commissioner Webb said.
“My number one priority is keeping the community safe and continuing to listen to the concerns and needs of the public.
“The role of Deputy Commissioner, Emergency Management, will help ensure we continue to provide a coordinated and mobile approach to delivering resources and personnel into emergency areas which need assistance.
“We look forward to working on the next stage of planning and preparation with emergency services agencies to ensure a streamlined approach to disaster response and recovery.”
Changes to Police’s executive team announced today include:
• Deputy Commissioner Peter Thurtell APM, formerly Deputy Commissioner, Regional Field Operations, has been appointed Deputy Commissioner, Emergency Management.
• Deputy Commissioner Paul Pisanos APM, formerly Deputy Commissioner, Corporate Services, has been appointed Deputy Commissioner, Regional NSW Field Operations.
• Deputy Commissioner Mal Lanyon APM will continue in the role of Metropolitan Field Operations.
• Deputy Commissioner David Hudson APM will continue in the role of Investigations and Counter Terrorism.
• Chief Financial Officer Kenna Ackley will relieve in the position of Deputy Commissioner, Corporate Services.
Deputy Commissioner Thurtell will take up his new position from Sunday, 11 December 2022.
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