NSW Police Training Shift: Engage or Hide?

Following a recent attack, the effectiveness and training of NSW Police first responders have come under intense examination. A significant evolution in their active shooter protocol, now termed 'Stop the Threat,' mandates immediate engagement rather than passive containment. This shift is informed by research indicating the brevity of such incidents, often concluding within minutes.

While officers are trained to approach threats directly, the strategy allows for tactical cover and assessment to minimize unnecessary risk. Some observers suggest that actions perceived as hesitation might have been strategic decisions. Nevertheless, the inherent difficulty of confronting armed individuals, particularly when outnumbered and outgunned, remains a considerable challenge.

Post-attack, renewed calls are being made to equip general duties officers with long-arm firearms, similar to those used in New Zealand and Canada. This proposal, previously rejected, aims to enhance officers' ability to engage threats from a safer distance. The discussion also touches upon existing staffing shortages, which may be exacerbated by the increased demands and scrutiny placed upon law enforcement.