New South Wales Crime Commission

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New South Wales Crime Commission (NSWCC)

The New South Wales Crime Commission is a government statutory body in New South Wales, Australia. It was created to reduce organised crime and other serious crime in the state and to help investigate terrorism-related offences.

What it does and how it’s set up
- It operates under the Crime Commission Act 2012 and the Criminal Assets Recovery Act 1990.
- It has about 150 employees and an annual budget of around $23 million.
- It is based at 453–463 Kent Street, Sydney.
- The agency is led by a Commissioner, supported by two Assistant Commissioners and staff, with governance by the NSW Crime Commission Management Committee.
- It works closely with the NSW Police Force.
- Its functions include criminal investigations and using civil powers to confiscate the proceeds of crime.

History and notable events
- The agency began as the State Drug Crime Commission in 1985–1986 to target drug crime and asset seizure; it was later renamed and expanded.
- In 2011, a Special Commission of Inquiry led by David Patten examined concerns about covert operations and governance. It found no misconduct except for the actions of a former assistant director, Mark Standen, who was convicted in 2011 of conspiring to import pseudoephedrine and perverting the course of justice, receiving up to 22 years in prison.
- The inquiry’s recommendations led to reforms and the passage of the Crime Commission Act 2012 to strengthen governance, management of informants, complaint handling, and oversight.
- In 2026, Stephen Dametto was announced to become commissioner on 24 February 2026.

Public accountability and transparency
- The NSWCC has faced scrutiny over secrecy and accountability, but reforms have been put in place to improve governance and oversight.

Website
crimecommission.nsw.gov.au