New NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon has outlined his priorities and has talked about issues deeply affecting the Western Plains.

Commissioner Mal Lanyon APM was formally appointed as the 24th NSW Police Force Commissioner, following a ceremony at Balmain Police Station yesterday, Wednesday 1 October.

‘’Working with my leadership team my priorities from day one include Organised Crime, Domestic Violence, Regional Youth Crime, Roads and Safety," he said.

The new Commissioner also flagged his approach to the expanding illegal vape and tobacco trade.

‘’Community is focus, engaging and being pro-active," the new Commissioner said.

“I can’t wait to get to work, tackling key priority areas: organised crime, community safety in our regions, supporting victims of domestic and family violence, and ensuring there is social cohesion within the community."

The ceremony was conducted in the presence of Her Excellency, The Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC and Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, The Honourable Yasmin Catley MP, as well as a number of other dignitaries and senior officers.

Commissioner Lanyon started his career at Glebe on 27 March 1987, and brings more than 37 years of policing experience to the role.

He has held a range of senior operational leadership roles, including leading the State Crime Command and serving as Deputy Commissioner since January 2019.

From April 2024, Commissioner Lanyon worked as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the NSW Reconstruction Authority, guiding the state’s natural disaster management efforts.

He says the work with the Reconstruction Authority gave him a good sense about the problems facing small communities and that his years of public service kept him in touch with the challenges facing the community and modern policing.

“It’s an honour to be appointed as the next Commissioner of the NSW Police Force. This is one of the greatest responsibilities in public service,” Commissioner Lanyon said.

“I take on this role with humility and a deep sense of duty.

“And I want to ensure that every police officer feels united and part of one team, motivated by the purpose and commitment to serve the community of NSW.”

Commissioner Lanyon talked about the illegal tobacco and vape problem.

“This a health issue and Health have the lead in the first instance but we are working with them to enforce the law," he said.

The Commissioner says sniffer dogs will continue in strip searches as a tool to snare those with drugs, knifes and weapons,

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley has congratulated Commissioner Lanyon on his appointment.

“Commissioner Lanyon has proven himself with almost four decades of exceptional service across frontline and leadership roles.

“He is ready to hit the ground running and has the experience and vision to lead the NSW Police Force into a bright, new era.

“Congratulations Commissioner. I look forward to working together."