UPDATE: In a remarkable career journey, Assistant Commissioner Andrew Holland has risen to lead the largest police command in New South Wales (NSW), covering a staggering 72% of the state. This development comes as Holland reflects on his formative years, which included mentoring Paralympian Kurt Fearnley at a local school.
Holland, who grew up as the son of a police officer, began his service in the late 1980s in Blayney. He volunteered at Carcoar Public School, where he helped organize sports activities every Friday. Little did he know that this would pave the way for Fearnley, who would become one of Australia’s most celebrated wheelchair racers. “The easiest way to win the town over is to obviously walk across the road and talk to the school,” Holland said.
Now, as the Western Region Commander, Holland oversees 118 police stations spanning from the Blue Mountains to the South Australian border. In just one year, he has traveled over 60,000 kilometers, managing a demanding schedule that includes visits to various districts throughout the week.
Holland’s role has seen him face significant challenges, including his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he coordinated the closure of Sydney Airport and the quarantine of incoming passengers. “I worked seven days a week for seven months straight,” he noted, emphasizing the operational challenges faced by the police during that period.
In April 2024, Holland was also involved in the response to the high-profile stabbing of Bishop Ma Mari Emmanuel, which sparked the Wakeley riots. His swift decision-making was crucial in restoring order. “Your best weapon is your voice. I’ve never had to use my gun or my taser,” he stated.
However, Holland faces ongoing issues, particularly concerning domestic violence, which now occupies 60% of police time. Despite a recent report from the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research indicating a decrease in many crime areas, domestic violence-related assaults have increased by almost 3%. “We are short on police across the state,” Holland admitted, highlighting the recruitment and retention challenges within the force.
Reflecting on changes in police culture, Holland noted, “Generational differences have thrown up new challenges to our retention team.” He emphasized the need for the NSW Police Force to adapt its recruitment strategies to appeal to younger generations, who may view a police career as a temporary experience rather than a lifelong commitment.
As Holland gears up for 2025, marking 40 years in the force, he remains dedicated to addressing the pressing issues facing Western NSW. His leadership continues to have a profound impact on community safety and police engagement.
Stay tuned for an in-depth interview with Assistant Commissioner Holland, where he will discuss the critical issues affecting policing in Western NSW.
