The new $3 million Helensburgh Police Station in the Illawarra region has been officially opened, bolstering the capabilities of NSW Police in the northern end of the Wollongong Police District.
NSW Premier Chris Minns and Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley joined NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb APM, Deputy Commissioner of Regional NSW Field Operations Paul Pisanos APM, Southern Region Assistant Commissioner Joe Cassar APM and Wollongong Commander Superintendent Karen Cook APM to officially unveil the new modular station.
In June 2024, the old police station was demolished on Waratah Street to make way for the new modular facility, which was built off-site.
The new station provides officers with modern facilities, secure parking for police vehicles and can station up to eight officers, compared to three previously.
“Today, our government gives Helensburgh its police station back,” said Premier Minns.
“NSW police are based in the northern Illawarra once again and that’s something Helensburgh community deserves.
“The new police station is something our government prioritised from the start and delivers today.
“Our Government is building a better NSW Police Force to keep communities like Helensburgh safe.”
Minister Catley said the new station returns a permanent police presence to Helensburgh and ensures officers can continue to support the growing community.
“Police work every day to keep us safe – it’s not an easy job which is why the Labor Government is providing them with the best facilities and resources to support their essential work,” Minister Catley said.
“We back our police to the hilt – we’ve put a historic wages offer on the table and introduced a range of recruitment measures including paid study to get more boots on the ground and address crime.”
NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb APM said officers had been working out of the new fit for purpose station since the start of this month.
“We already have officers starting and finishing their shifts at Helensburgh, providing a greater police presence for the northern residents of Wollongong,” Commissioner Webb said.
“This new and modern station provides improved capacity and fit-for-purpose facilities for our officers, which in turn means we are better able to serve the local community.”