Tracy Linford and Mick Willing firm as favourites in race for Victoria’s police chief job

Both of the leading candidates are veteran cops from other states. See who else is in the running to become Victoria’s next Police Commissioner.

Victoria’s new top cop is odds-on to be a woman.

Sources with knowledge of the race to become Victoria Police’s next chief commissioner believe two candidates – Tracy Linford and Mick Willing – are the top contenders.

It can also be revealed that the outgoing Deputy Commissioner Neil Paterson has been interviewed for the chief commissioner role.

Mr Paterson was told in February the Allan government would not be reappointing him.

An announcement on Victoria’s chief commissioner is set to be made as early as next week.

Deputy Commissioner Linford, who has been on leave from the Queensland Police service, cut her teeth as a Victorian cop.

Queensland Deputy Commissioner Tracy Linford. Picture: Zak Simmonds

As a detective in Victoria, Ms Linford rose through the ranks to become an assistant commissioner before leaving for Queensland in 2015.

During her time there, Ms Linford has headed up intelligence, counter-terrorism and major events portfolios.

Her other experience in her 37-year career includes general duties, investigations and countering serious organised crime.

Ms Linford, who was awarded the Australian Police Medal in 2014, has been on leave from Queensland’s force.

“She’s a good person and good copper. Very astute and she fights for what she believes in,” a source said.

If Ms Linford wins the position, she will be Victoria’s second woman to become chief.

Former chief commissioner Christine Nixon was Victoria’s first female top cop from 2001 to 2009.

Former NSW deputy police commissioner Mick Willing. Picture: Tim Hunter.

Another veteran cop, former NSW deputy commissioner Mick Willing, is being touted as a contender.

Mr Willing’s 31-year law enforcement career came to a sudden end in 2022 when his new boss, NSW Commissioner Karen Webb, tore up his contract.

He had been considered former NSW premier Gladys Berejiklian’s “preferred candidate” for commissioner before she resigned her post.

It’s understood Mr Willing is keen to make a comeback to policing after time away from law enforcement helping first responders deal with mental health issues.

Mr Willing has also spoken openly about his own demons after his career ended.

Pundits say a star performer from the federal police was asked to apply but declined.

Australian Federal Police Deputy Commissioner Krissy Barrett, who has spent her 23-years with the feds, has managed the national security portfolio since 2024.

Australian Federal Police Deputy Commissioner Krissy Barrett. Picture: NewsWire/ Gaye Gerard

Prior to her promotion, Ms Barrett headed the AFP’s counter-terrorism and special investigations, including foreign interference and espionage.

Although several serving Victorian cops have put up their hand to lead the force, none is considered likely to get the nod.

The Allan government’s committee will make a recommendation to Police Minister Anthony Carbines.

The Victoria Police Chief Commissioner is appointed by the Governor in Council under the Victoria Police Act for a five-year term.

Acting Chief Commissioner Rick Nugent is expected to leave the force soon after a permanent chief is named.

Former Chief Commissioner Shane Patton. Picture: NewsWire / Nadir Kinani

Mr Nugent replaced Chief Commissioner Shane Patton in February, who was informed his contract would not be renewed after rank and file police members took a vote of no confidence in him.

Mr Patton took leave after being told of the government’s decision not to reappoint him.

His contract expires on June 30.

Mr Nugent, who left Emergency Management Victoria to take the acting role at Victoria Police, opted out of applying to lead the force after less than two months in the seat.

Originally published as Tracy Linford and Mick Willing firm as favourites in race for Victoria’s police chief job