Ex-NZ Police Chief Appointed Victoria’s Top Cop

Ex-NZ Police Chief Mike Bush, known for leading through crises like Christchurch attacks and COVID, brings over 40 years’ experience to Victoria Police.

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan speaking to media during a press conference, in Melbourne, Australia, on Feb. 17, 2025. AAP Image/James Ross

Former New Zealand Police Commissioner Mike Bush has been named the next chief commissioner of Victoria Police, with his term commencing on June 27.

The Victorian government confirmed the appointment following a global recruitment process.

“He made the community safer in New Zealand and he’ll make the community safer in Victoria,” said Premier Jacinta Allan.

Until Bush formally steps into the role, Deputy Commissioner Robert Hill will serve as acting chief commissioner.

Current acting Chief Rick Nugent will step down on May 8 after declining an extension to his acting term.

Nugent took on the role on Feb. 16, following the departure of Shane Patton, who was ousted after a union-led vote of no confidence by rank-and-file officers.

A Seasoned Leader in Crisis

Bush led the New Zealand Police from 2014 to 2020 and has more than four decades of policing experience.

He has demonstrated his leadership during high-pressure events, such as the Christchurch mosque attacks, the Whakaari White Island volcanic eruption, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

During his tenure, the NZ police force underwent significant reforms, including on community engagement, focus on early intervention, and internal culture.

More recently, Bush has worked with the Fijian government to modernise its police force and serves as an ambassador for groups supporting the mental health of emergency personnel.

Rising Crime Demands Strong Response

Bush enters the role as Victoria faces mounting pressure to curb rising crime.

In 2024, crime rose by 13.4 percent compared to the previous year, with over 68,000 additional cases.

Property offences are leading the surge, particularly theft from vehicles, which hit a record 68,042 incidents.

Retail theft jumped 36.6 percent, while family violence cases exceeded 100,000 for the first time. Youth crime is also escalating, with offences by children and young adults at historic highs.

In response, the Allan government rolled out stringent reforms in March 2025, including what it calls the “toughest bail laws ever.” These laws eliminate the “last resort” principle for young offenders and ban the use of machetes across the state.

Previously, young people could only be detained in custody if no other options were viable. The new laws now make detention more likely for those facing serious charges.

New laws also introduced tougher bail tests for those accused of serious crimes. The bail process now includes stricter criteria based on the severity of the offence.

Bush’s appointment signals a strategic shift as the government seeks to restore public confidence and bring crime under control.