Andrew Colvin named new Australian Federal Police Commissioner

Former deputy federal police commissioner Andrew Colvin has been announced as the new Australian Federal Police commissioner.

The announcement comes after former Australian Federal Police commissioner Tony Negus stepped down last month.

Mr Colvin is a 24-year veteran of the federal police, starting his career in Sydney, where he worked in countering money laundering and terrorism financing.

"He is eminently suited to lead the Australian Federal Police in these challenging times," Prime Minister Tony Abbott told reporters in Canberra.

The new chief was involved in the response to the 2002 Bali bombings and Jakarta bombings in 2003 and 2004.

Mr Colvin said the new role would be challenging.

"Transnational crime, organised crime, is more pervasive than it has ever been," he said.

"It is affecting the lives of Australians each and every day and AFP has an important role in combating that crime."

Mr Negus has been tipped for a diplomatic posting.