Central Hunter received just one probationary constable from the 170 new graduates from the NSW Police Academy last month.

Crime manager Detective Inspector John Zdrilic said the area could use more police, but also acknowledged the work of his officers.

“Could we use more staff here? Of course we could,” he said.

“We have a high rate of workloads per officer, we’re a very busy command.

“Can we handle what we’re doing now? Some of our officers probably need a break, but it is what it is, it’s a 24/7 job.”

The Central Hunter local area command is made up of nine police stations – Beresfield, Cessnock, East Gresford, Kurri Kurri, Lochinvar, Maitland, Morpeth, Paterson and Wollombi.

The LAC’s only new recruit began work at Maitland police station in late August.

Inspector Zdrilic said, while the Central Hunter could use more officers, their situation was similar to a number of other commands across the state.

“There’s a reasonable workload there, my officers work hard, they get in there and get it done,” he said.

“We have some of the best officers in the state, but our situation isn’t unique, a lot of commands could use more police.”

NSW Police Minister Stuart Ayres announced earlier this month that Central Hunter would receive eight new police positions next May, which would include a range of staff types. 

Inspector Zdrilic said his command enjoyed a good relationship with the community, which helped assist the work of police.

“It goes hand-in-hand, as crime manager you look at strategies to reduce crime with what we have, that’s the way we look at it,” he said.

“If you stand there and offer me more staff, of course I’m going to take it.

“But the support we get from the community we’re very thankful for.”