Mike Bush has been officially sworn in as Victoria’s new Chief Commissioner of Police, pledging to be “responsible and accountable” as he addressed 360 new recruits at a ceremony held Friday morning at the Victoria Police Academy in Glen Waverley.
“My mission is to ensure the public and communities have full confidence in Victoria Police,” he stated.
Bush previously served as New Zealand’s Police Commissioner from 2014 to 2020, where he led responses to major national crises including the Whakaari White Island volcano disaster and the Christchurch terror attack. He is widely credited with reforming the New Zealand Police, improving its internal culture, and securing a 20% increase in staffing and funding.
“Creating safe communities in Victoria is essential — everyone has a right to feel secure,” Bush added.
A New Chapter Amid Ongoing Challenges
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said Bush’s extensive leadership experience abroad would serve him well. “Under Mike Bush’s leadership, New Zealand’s police force was transformed — trust went up and crime came down,” she said.
Bush assumes the role during a period of upheaval within Victoria Police. Former commissioner Shane Patton stepped down in February following a strong vote of no-confidence from the police union. Rick Nugent, who had been acting as commissioner, confirmed he would not pursue the role permanently.
Bush said his priorities include crime prevention and lifting morale across the force. “Crime rates are too high — particularly youth crime and organised crime. We need collaborative approaches to get ahead of it,” he said.
Crime and Policy Response
According to recent data from the Crime Statistics Agency, overall offences in Victoria rose by 17.1% in the year ending March. Youth crime has reached record levels, with young offenders significantly involved in home invasions and aggravated burglaries.
In response, the state government has passed new laws, including tougher bail conditions and a ban on machetes set to take effect in September.
Reactions from the Opposition and Police Association
Opposition Leader Brad Battin welcomed Bush’s appointment, acknowledging the difficulty of the job. “Victoria’s police officers are among the most dedicated — but under Labor, they’ve been under-resourced and overstretched,” Battin said. He also urged Bush to prioritise addressing staffing shortages and rebuilding public confidence in the force.
The Police Association of Victoria expressed support, saying officers are invested in Bush’s success. Secretary Wayne Gatt said Bush is viewed as a leader who listens, engages with communities, and understands the importance of crime prevention.
“In light of the current challenges in Victorian policing, these leadership qualities are exactly what we need to restore public trust,” Gatt said.
