NSW Police Commissioner job interviews: Candidates vie for top position

SHORT-LISTED candidates for the prestigious role of Police Commissioner, including Deputy Commissioner Cath Burn, are being interviewed at a Sydney hotel today, as they vie for the top job.

NSW Deputy Police Commissioner Catherine Burn interviewed for the big job today. Picture: Craig Wilson

ONE of the state’s great feuds reached a climax yesterday as Catherine Burn and Nick Kaldas took their last shots at becoming NSW Police Commissioner.

The pair, who have long been at odds over a police bugging scandal, were among a group of senior officers who each had a one-hour interview for the job of the state’s top cop at Sydney’s Four Seasons Hotel.

Also on the shortlist was Assistant Commissioner Mick Fuller, yesterday named by one betting agency as the favourite “due to punter support”. Mr Kaldas and Ms Burn were listed at $21.

Catherine Burn leaves the job interview. Picture: Craig Wilson

Many of the contenders did their best to make stealthy entrances and exits.

Australian Border Force Commissioner, Roman Quaedvlieg said little as he arrived for his interview, while Assistant Commissioner Jeff Loy, backed by the Police Association, also declined to comment as he left.

Also among the contenders are high-ranking officers David Hudson, Geoff McKechnie and Carlene York.

After a lengthy interview, Mr Kaldas was asked if he was confident of his chances.

“I wouldn’t say that,” the former deputy commissioner said.

When one journalist put to him that he had significant support with serving officers, he said: “I’m grateful for that, very grateful.”

Mr Kaldas returned to Sydney from Jordan where he has been working for the UN. He is considered a prominent counter-terrorism expert.

Jeff Loy is up for the top job.

Border Force cheif Roman Quaedvlieg.

Deputy Commissioner Burn declined to comment after her interview, saying it would be inappropriate.

The police bugging scandal could cruel both Mr Kaldas and Ms Burn’s hopes of replacing Commissioner Andrew Scipione, who retires on April 2, though both have questioned the findings of an Ombudsman’s inquiry.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian provided the interview panel with the Ombudsman’s report and the Crime Commission response, which was critical of the findings.

Opposition Leader Luke Foley has backed Mr Kaldas’ candidacy and lavished him with praise.

“Nick Kaldas is the finest police officer of his generation,” he said. “He enjoys the deepest respect from this state’s police officers ... and he’s in demand around the world. Let’s snap him up.”

Mr Fuller is considered a rising star and has featured in a public anti-domestic violence campaign.