Armed response officers begin high-visibility patrols across Sydney
New South Wales Police began patrols by its Armed Response Command (ARC) in Sydney on Sunday, with officers carrying military-style rifles. Police say the unit is intended to deter and respond to serious armed threats, and its creation follows the alleged Bondi Beach attack in which 15 people were killed.
The ARC has more than 200 officers, trained in rifle use and specialised driving, and is expected to grow to 250 full-time officers plus 28 civilian staff. Its high-visibility patrols will focus on priority locations, large gatherings and major events, and it will also work with Operation Shelter, which targets antisemitism and Islamophobia. The NSW Government has invested $94 million in the command.
In short
- Armed Response Command patrols began in Sydney on Sunday.
- Officers will carry Australian Combat Assault Rifles.
- The NSW Government invested $94 million in the unit.
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The case for
Visible patrols by specially trained officers could reassure the public and help police respond quickly to a serious armed threat, particularly at crowded events and other priority locations. After a deadly attack, investing in a dedicated command may also strengthen preparedness and show that authorities are taking public safety seriously.
The case against
Routine patrols with military-style rifles may make public spaces feel more threatening and risk treating a rare danger as a reason for a lasting expansion of armed policing. Critics could question whether the substantial investment and highly visible presence will prevent attacks, and argue that security measures should be proportionate, evidence-led and attentive to their effects on community trust.
Explained simply
The Armed Response Command is a specialist unit within New South Wales Police, the force responsible for policing Sydney and the rest of the state. Its officers are trained to respond to serious armed threats, including incidents that may require rifles and specialist driving.
The unit was created after the alleged attack at Bondi Beach, where 15 people were killed. It is part of a wider effort to protect public safety, including work alongside Operation Shelter, which targets antisemitism and Islamophobia.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “Sydneysiders told to expect to see police patrolling with assault rifles from this week”.