Mike Bush, the former leader of the New Zealand police, is set to become Victoria’s next chief commissioner, with a commitment to prioritize crime prevention and boost police presence statewide.
Victoria’s Premier, Jacinta Allan, and police minister, Anthony Carbines, announced on Tuesday that Bush has been granted a five-year contract to head the state’s police service, commencing on 27 June.
Bush has had a lengthy career with the New Zealand police, serving from 1978, and heading the force from 2014 until his retirement in April 2020. During his tenure, he led the response to the 2019 Christchurch mosque shootings and the White Island volcano eruption.
He stated that his “genuine passion for policing,” ingrained in him throughout his life, motivated him to come out of retirement for this role, after being approached by the Victorian government.
Bush articulated his dedication to public safety, emphasizing that ensuring communities feel safe is of utmost importance.
Expressing his admiration for Victoria, Bush said he’s thrilled to serve its community, acknowledging it as a place he and many Kiwis hold in high regard.
Bush joins the Victoria police force at a challenging time, amidst rising crime rates. In 2024, there was a 13.2% increase in crime, the highest seen since 2016.
The offenses committed by youth aged between 10 and 17 have surged to record levels since 1993, prompting the government to reinforce bail laws.
The police leadership in Victoria has faced turbulence, with the forced resignation of Commissioner Shane Patton following a vote of no confidence and the withdrawal of candidate Rick Nugent, the acting commissioner, from consideration for the permanent post.
Allan hailed Bush’s appointment as bringing “new leadership” to the Victoria police, crediting his success in enhancing safety in New Zealand, and expecting similar outcomes in Victoria.
Bush, aware of Victoria’s crime challenges, sees them as part of a global issue, advocating for a proactive strategy in crime prevention.
He claims his approach will be influenced by Sir Robert Peel’s principle that the police’s primary function is to prevent crime and harm, with increased visibility and the use of intelligence to tackle issues before they escalate.
Bush, recognized for his work with diverse communities in New Zealand, including Māori and Multifaceted groups, explained the New Zealand police’s unique stance on firearms, rarely carried except for emergency use in vehicles.
His appointment marks the first time someone without local police experience has been chosen for the top role since 2001.
Bush embraces his role as an outsider and expressed gratitude for the opportunity. Fellow ex-New South Wales commission assistant and current Victoria police chief, Christine Nixon, endorses the decision, noting the parallels between New Zealand and Australian policing methods.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/may/06/victoria-police-chief-commissioner-mike-bush
