NSW Police Armed Response Command Undergoes Specialist Tactical Medical Training

Officers from the newly established NSW Police Armed Response Command (ARC) are undertaking specialist medical training in New South Wales ahead of their operational launch scheduled for November 1, 2026. The training, announced on October 14, 2026, is delivered by NSW Ambulance instructors to prepare officers to deliver critical first aid during major emergencies and active threat situations.

The ARC was established as a permanent, intelligence-led capability to respond rapidly to terrorism, armed incidents, and emerging public safety threats. According to the NSW Police Force, the unit was created as a permanent capability following the terror attack at Bondi Beach in December 2025.

Through the Tactical Medical First Responder training, ARC officers are taught to assess casualties, manage life-threatening bleeding, and administer trauma care in dangerous or fluid threat environments where paramedics may not have immediate access. The program is also aimed at enhancing interoperability between the NSW Police Force and NSW Ambulance during mass-casualty and active shooting incidents.

Alongside medical instruction, ARC officers are completing advanced driver training and general rifle courses. Once fully operational, the command will maintain a 24-hour response capability supported by a dedicated Police Operations Centre, eventually comprising 250 police officers and 28 civilian staff.

Detective Superintendent Andrew Evans, Commander of the Armed Response Command, stated that the unit's officers are likely to be the first to arrive on the scene of serious incidents, making early medical intervention critical. NSW Ambulance Assistant Commissioner Cameron Edgar noted that the shared training prepares both agencies to coordinate effectively during large-scale emergencies.

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