Victoria has appointed Mike Bush, former Commissioner and Chief Executive of New Zealand Police, as its next Chief Commissioner, with Premier Jacinta Allan declaring he is “the right person for the job.”
Bush, who brings over 40 years of policing experience including six as New Zealand’s top cop, vowed to tackle Victoria’s crime challenges with a fresh focus on community trust, prevention, and strategic reform.
“My mission is to ensure that everyone in the state of Victoria not only is safe but feels safe,” Bush said at a media briefing.
“We will be operationally excellent, transparent, and act with integrity, professionalism, respect, and compassion.”
Premier Allan praised Bush’s record, noting,
“He made the community safer in New Zealand, and he will do so here in Victoria.”
Bush joined the police force as a young man, becoming the first in his family to do so. Over a 42-year career, he rose through the ranks to lead the New Zealand Police, focusing on building public trust and reducing community harm. Though he hadn’t initially aimed to become Commissioner, he was ultimately tasked with navigating some of the country’s most challenging crises, including the Christchurch mosque attacks in March 2019 and the Whakaari/White Island volcanic eruption in December 2019.
During his time leading the New Zealand Police from 2014 to 2020, Bush also introduced major organisational reforms, lifted public confidence, and reduced crime — experience Allan says will be vital as Victoria Police confronts rising crime rates and low morale.
Bush pledged to prioritise crime prevention and community partnerships, especially when addressing youth crime.
“It’s not just for police to address that issue — it’s a community issue, it’s a government issue.”
He also emphasised responsible resource allocation, saying:
“This is public money — your money — and I will ensure it’s spent in the right way, in the right place, and effectively.”
The Police Association welcomed the new commissioner, with CEO Wayne Gatt describing Bush as a good listener and someone open to change.
“With change comes new opportunities for our members and for the Victorian community.”
Former New Zealand Police Minister Stuart Nash called Bush “tough but fair” and praised his hands-on leadership style and commitment to police welfare.
“He gets down on the ground, he talks to the men and women, and most importantly, he’s got their backs.”
Victoria’s opposition welcomed Bush’s appointment but warned he must be properly supported. Shadow Police Minister David Southwick said,
“The new commissioner must not be set up to fail. He must be given the funding, the promised police numbers, and the powers required to do the job effectively.”
While some critics lamented the decision not to appoint a local candidate, former Victorian commissioner Christine Nixon backed Bush as a “calm” and “considered” choice who would quickly adapt.
The appointment follows an extensive recruitment process after the resignation of former commissioner Shane Patton earlier this year. Bush will officially take the reins in June, with Deputy Commissioner Bob Hill serving as Acting Chief Commissioner in the interim.
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