The NSW Government and NSW Police hosted a Community Safety Forum in Greta yesterday to discuss the ongoing efforts of police to address and prevent crime in the Hunter Valley.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley and Member for Cessnock, Clayton Barr were joined by the Hunter Valley PD Commander Acting Superintendent Justin Cornes, at Greta Public School.
The forum was an opportunity for residents to hear directly from the Minister, Local Member and Police and ask questions about community safety and policing in the area.
The forum also allowed local authorities to address community safety.
During the forum, attendees heard about the proactive steps local police are taking to keep communities safe, with officers outlining their on-the-ground efforts and the vital role of community partnerships in preventing crime and improving safety.
The NSW Government has introduced a comprehensive suite of measures to strengthen police recruitment and retention.
These include the Be a Cop in Your Hometown initiative, pay to study for recruits at Goulburn Police Academy and the Professional Mobility Program, which streamlines the pathway for experienced officers from interstate and New Zealand to join the NSW Police Force.
A key part of this reform is the historic four-year wage agreement secured by the Minns Labor Government, delivering the largest pay rise in the NSW Police Force’s history – a major investment ensures competitive salaries to help attract and retain skilled officers across the state.
These measures are already working, with applications to join the NSW Police Force increasing by 70 per cent.
In December, the Goulburn Police Academy graduated its largest class in a decade, with many new officers now serving in local stations, including those in the Hunter Valley Police District.
The forum acknowledged this progress but also stressed that more work is needed, with the NSW Government committed to ongoing improvements in police staffing.
This focus on rebuilding public services and investing in vital community resources reflects the Minns Labor Government’s broader goal – ensuring every community across NSW has the support it needs.
The community forum was another important step in building a safer, stronger future for Greta, Rothbury, Branxton and North Rothbury (Huntlee).
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said:
“When communities and leaders come together with open ears and shared purpose, we build trust, understanding and real progress. I’m grateful to everyone who showed up and shared their voice.
“Our police are doing an outstanding job but we know more support is needed which is why we’re focused on getting more boots on the ground.
“I want to thank the Member for Cessnock for his tireless advocacy –without which these important conversations wouldn’t have had the platform they deserved.”
Member for Cessnock, Clayton Barr said:
“It was great to see so many community members, leaders and police come together to address how we can all work together to tackle crime in our area.
“Thank you to the NSW Police, the NSW Minister for Police the Hon Yasmin Catley and local police for coming together with the community for this important discussion.
“Our local police are working incredibly hard across the entire region, the best thing we as community members can do if you witness a crime is to make sure it is reported.
“The simple act of reporting through Police Assistance Line on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 for non-emergencies or 000 for emergency situations can make a difference.”