Chief Minister Michael Gunner and Police Minister Nicole Manison today congratulated Northern Territory Police Commissioner Reece Kershaw on his appointment as the new Australian Federal Police Commissioner.

Commissioner Kershaw will replace Andrew Colvin, whose five-year term ends on 1 October.

Mr Kershaw is the third Northern Territory Police Commissioner to take over as boss of the AFP, following Peter McAulay, who took on the job in 1988, and Mick Palmer, who moved into the role in 1994.

A recruitment process will begin immediately for Commissioner Kershaw’s replacement.

Quotes from Chief Minister Michael Gunner.

“Commissioner Kershaw has contributed to a safer Territory through his service to the NT Police Force and I congratulate him on his new role as head of the Australian Federal Police.

“During Commissioner Kershaw’s five years as head of NT Police, he has overseen the implementation of significant reforms to help stop crime, particularly alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour.

“This includes the re-introduction of the Banned Drinkers Register, 75 Police Auxiliary Liquor Inspectors across the Territory and helping Government to deliver on its promise of 120 extra police into the force – all of which have helped cut violent alcohol-related offending in the Northern Territory to the lowest number in 10 years.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Nicole Manison.

“Commissioner Kershaw’s time at the helm of the NT Police Force has been transformative and his new role as AFP Commissioner is well-deserved recognition of all he has achieved here.

“Commissioner Kershaw has pushed hard for cultural change within the organisation, including increasing the numbers of Indigenous members and women.

“He has helped oversee the construction of the Palmerston Police Station, as well the beginning of work on the new Nightcliff Police Station and played a crucial role in the police response to the June shooting deaths of four people in Darwin.

“I wish him all the best in his new role. Recruitment will start immediately for his replacement.”

Media contact: Kim Stephens 0417 683 144