NSW police commissioner discuss domestic violence, sexual abuse at Wagga women’s police forum

The state’s first female police commissioner spoke to dozens of female Riverina officers and staff about the important role women play in policing. Find out more.

More than 80 women of the Riverina Police District came together to discuss their experiences as females in the force with guest speakers on hand to inspire the current crop.

The forum addressed the future of women working in policing and discussed not just crime but also lifestyle and work balance in the day long event.

NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb was in attendance and spoke to the group about her struggles as she made her way through the ranks.

But she also discussed her passion in tackling ‘silent crime’ and the importance of a connected workforce.

“I spoke about silent crime and more predominantly sexual abuse and domestic violence and how women like us in the workforce are good listeners,” Commissioner Webb said.

“(We) have the empathy to support all as this is a key issue across NSW but especially a national issue.

“It is really important and one of my priorities as commissioner is to have a connected workforce and connected community so today bringing women of the Wagga area together is about (being able) to connect with each other and also probably to catch up as they don’t see each other as often because of shift work and outlying stations.”

The forum addressed the future of women on the force. Picture: Patrick Morrow

The commissioner said the forum was key in creating more engagement for the workforce.

“This forum will create engagement for our workforce and is an opportunity to create more promotions in the workforce,” she said.

Riverina Police District manager Sharyn Peterson said she was thrilled by the turnout at the forum and was hoping it could help the women keep connected throughout their busy work schedule.

“Inspiring our women ...and using this as an opportunity to encourage and promote the opportunities the force has to offer but also highlight the need for women to have work flexibility as well (was the aim),” Ms Peterson said.

The forum was a chance to show just how dynamic modern day policing is.

“(It was) also a chance to praise our good work in the force as women and show how dynamic we are,” Ms Peterson said.

“It will create networking opportunities for the women and is an important part of growing their bonds in fighting crime.

“We have over 80 women in our force now (across the Riverina) and hopefully having this forum every year will help us in the future so more women join the force and encourage the future generations,” she said.