NSW State Emergency Service chief resigns amid misconduct allegations

The NSW Government announced State Emergency Service (SES) Commissioner Mark Smethurst has resigned following allegations of misconduct.

Emergency Services Minister Troy Grant said he has accepted Mr Smethurst’s resignation.

“I have no tolerance for misconduct and allegations will always be taken seriously no matter who they relate to.”

“Appropriate measures have been put in place to support those affected by this matter.”

The state government announced NSW Police Force Assistant Commissioner Kyle Stewart has been appointed as interim SES Commissioner until the position can be formally advertised and a new permanent appointment made.

Mr Smethurst, a former army officer, was appointed commissioner in February 2017.