Overview
- The Armed Response Command began high-visibility, 24/7 patrols across Sydney on Sunday carrying long-range Australian Combat Assault Rifles.
- The unit is funded at $94.3 million and will expand to about 250 officers and 28 civilian intelligence and support staff by 2027, operating from a purpose-built Surry Hills operations centre.
- Officers completed roughly six months of specialist training in rifle use, armed-offender response, advanced driving and tactical medical care and will focus on major events, crowded public places, sporting venues and places of worship.
- The ARC launch coincides with the first stage of a staged 12-month gun buyback in NSW that reclassifies some weapons, caps numbers per licence, tightens storage and identity rules and funds upgrades to the Firearms Registry.
- Human-rights groups and some MPs warn the visible use of military-style rifles risks policing militarisation and intimidation and are calling for clear public rules and independent oversight while police and some community groups say the unit is needed after the Bondi attack.