Overview
- The new Armed Response Command (ARC) has begun a public phase of training and officers carrying long‑arm rifles are expected to be seen on Sydney streets in the coming weeks.
- The Minns government committed about $94 million to create the ARC, which will be equipped with Australian Combat Assault Rifles reportedly made by Lithgow Arms, purpose‑built vehicles and specialist training.
- When fully staffed the ARC will run 24/7 with 250 officers and 28 civilian staff, and the first 60 officers are scheduled to start operational duties in November.
- The ARC will assume the high‑visibility patrols of Operation Shelter and can be deployed proactively outside places of worship, stadiums and major public events to provide rapid armed response.
- The rollout comes as the government continues to consider arming volunteer Community Security Group personnel and as the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission prepares private hearings into recent police operations, intensifying scrutiny of oversight and coordination.