The eight probationary constables will soon begin duties at the Riverina Police District, where they will embark on their policing career.

Minister for Police Troy Grant congratulated the new recruits on graduating from the Goulburn Police Academy after more than eight months of training and university-level education.

“Community safety is of paramount importance and I am absolutely thrilled to welcome the new probationary constables to the Riverina community,” Mr Grant said.

“The mere presence of a blue uniform puts our minds at ease; however, it also comes with enormous challenges.

“As a community, we turn to the police in our worst hour and expect them to stand in harm’s way to prevent and disrupt criminal activity.

“I commend our newest officers on making the decision to put the community’s safety above their own and joining one of the proudest organisations in the state.”

Elsewhere in the Southern Region, two officers have been allocated to the Murrumbidgee Police District, one to Murray River and two each to Monaro and Lake Illawarra.

The latest recruits were part of the 246 new officers of class 334 to join the ranks of the NSW Police Force.

The class includes 155 men and 91 women who will complete 12 months on-the-job training and study of the Associate Degree in Policing Practice by distance education with Charles Sturt University before being confirmed to the rank of constable.​

Mr Grant said the Liberals and Nationals Government committed to increasing the authorised strength of the NSW Police Force to a record 16,795 over this term.

“The security and safety of the people of NSW is a top priority for this Government and these new probationary officers will be a great asset in helping to identify, disrupt and combat crime in the local community,” Mr Grant said.

“I am proud to welcome the newest members to the NSW Police family, and I wish them the best for their future policing career.”

Comments from the Riverina Police District are being sought.