Overview
- The Armed Response Command became operational on Sunday with officers conducting high-visibility, rifle-equipped patrols across Sydney and assisting at least one weapons-related arrest hours after launch.
- The government funded the unit with a $94.3 million establishment package and plans to grow the command to about 250 officers plus 28 civilian intelligence and support staff by 2027.
- ARC officers completed roughly six months of specialist training in rifle use, active armed-offender response, advanced driving and tactical medical care before beginning 24/7 deployments.
- The command will focus on priority locations such as major events, crowded public spaces, sporting venues and places of worship and will be supported by a dedicated 24-hour operations centre feeding real-time intelligence to crews.
- The ARC launch coincided with the start of NSW’s gun buyback and has sharpened debate over policing militarisation, rising post-Bondi policing costs and calls from rights groups and some politicians for clear safeguards and independent oversight.