NSW Police releases scathing review into toxic workplace culture

A damning independent review has exposed a toxic culture within the NSW Police Force, amid growing concerns about bullying and sexual harassment within the workplace. 

More than 5000 current and former officers came forward to share their stories, detailing widespread bullying, sexual discrimination, and a fear of retaliation if they spoke out.

“People spoke to us of their pride, their service ... but also burnout, fatigue, discrimination, and bullying,” lead reviewer Kristen Hilton said.

“About 30 per cent [experienced] bullying in the last five years.”

The review contains deeply disturbing allegations, including one female officer who alleged a sergeant placed his hands on her, whispering: “You’re not leaving until I have sex with you.”

Others reported daily comments centred around body-shaming and “sexiness”.

“Bullying is as much a part of this organisation as wearing a uniform,” one officer stated.

“I’m a resilient person. But I was sitting in my car vomiting before coming to work,” another said.

The Independent Cultural Review was established in 2024 and looked at leadership, diversity and inclusion, recruitment and promotion, and systems for preventing and responding to harmful behaviours within the NSW Police Force.

Lanyon said despite the review being a “challenging” process, it created “a valuable base for future action”.

“There is no place for harmful behaviours within our organisation,” Lanyon.

“Equally, we must provide an environment where people feel safe to come forward.”

There were 29 recommendations across seven themes, including leadership, addressing harmful behaviours, and support and care for NSW Police Force staff members, all of which Lanyon accepted.

Key findings of the review uncovered concerns about workplace behaviour and lack of confidence in making reports, and the impact of policing on wellbeing and retention. 

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Lanyon said there were already initiatives to combat the findings, including preventing the rise of “harmful behaviours” through a two-year education program and a continued focus on mental health and critical incident support.

“There is already a significant amount of work underway to address some of the key issues raised, but there’s more to do,” Lanyon said.

“We will continue to listen, assess progress, and adjust our approach where needed.”

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said the review was a chance to strengthen the police force.

“For many, sharing their experience would have been difficult,” she said.

“Their willingness to speak up is critical in bringing these matters to light and allowing us to do better.”