NSW Police Culture Review Finds Widespread Bullying, Discrimination, and Sexual Harassment

An independent review of NSW Police culture released Thursday found that bullying, discrimination, and sexual harassment persist at "unacceptable levels" within the force, despite some cultural improvements. The review, led by former Victorian equal opportunity commissioner Kristen Hilton and based on responses from approximately 5,000 officers (a quarter of the 20,000-strong workforce), documented widespread harmful behaviour including racial slurs, sexual assault allegations, and physical abuse during training. The report noted that every woman interviewed described experiences of overt or covert harassment, undermining, or belittlement, with one in three respondents reporting bullying over the past five years and one quarter experiencing discrimination. Staff reported that speaking up was actively discouraged due to fear of retaliation, isolation, or denied promotions, and some were more traumatised by internal bullying than by external job demands. The review made 29 recommendations aimed at addressing favouritism, lack of diversity, and accountability for poor behaviour, all of which NSW Police has accepted. Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon stated the reported experiences were "disappointing" and would not be tolerated.