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23 JANUARY 2026
Corrective Services NSW has welcomed 34 new Correctional Officers at a proud Graduation Parade, marking the first attestation ceremony of 2026.
Smiles were wide and families were proud as they watched the first graduates of 2026 march onto the parade ground in front of CSNSW senior leaders at the Corrective Services Academy.
Academy Director Simon Kritsotakis opened the event with a warm welcome and an acknowledgement of the Wallumedegal people, the Traditional Custodians of the land. He praised the graduates for their hard work over the 12‑week course, noting their rapid development in communication, legislation, policy, scenario‑based learning and practical custodial skills.
“You have come so far,” he told them. “Learning doesn’t stop today – every day on the job will shape your skills, your confidence and your understanding of the people you’ll support.”
Commissioner Gary McCahon PSM echoed this sentiment, congratulating the new officers on their achievement and recognising the personal sacrifice behind their success. He reflected on the demanding nature of the profession, describing it as both challenging and deeply rewarding.
“Every shift you undertake contributes directly to community safety,” he said. “The work you do may not always be visible to the public, but its impact is significant and enduring.”
Alongside the graduates, the ceremony also celebrated several Community Corrections Officers who completed a Certificate IV in Correctional Practice, balancing study with the demanding responsibility of supervising offenders in the community.
The event also recognised long‑serving staff whose careers exemplify the CSNSW values of service, integrity, trust, respect and accountability. Their dedication, Commissioner McCahon noted, helps make NSW communities safer every day.
Family and friends were warmly acknowledged throughout the ceremony, with leaders emphasising the vital role they play in supporting officers through the pressures of frontline work.
The ceremony marked the start of a new chapter for 34 officers who join a 10,000‑strong workforce committed to rehabilitation, community safety, reducing reoffending and positive change. Congratulations to all graduates as they begin their careers with Corrective Services NSW.
