Assistant Commissioner Peter Barrie APM from Southern Region Command announced the appointment of a new commander on Tuesday.

Superintendent Craig Ireland joined the NSW Police Force in March 1988 and was initially stationed in the Sutherland area performing general duties.

He spent 12 years in general duties before moving into a proactive role as part of the Target Action Group at Georges River. His policing career has since taken him to the Dog Squad, Bankstown, Wagga, Cabramatta and Lake Illawarra.

Superintendent Ireland said his time in Wagga gave him a great exposure to regional New South Wales.

"I'm not a complete stranger to the rural environment," he said.

"When I saw the role advertised a few months back, I was excited about the prospect of returning to the country and making a positive impact on the local community."

Superintendent Ireland said one of his main focuses will be on helping young people make good life decisions.

"Steering young people down the right path will be a major focus of mine as I take on the new role," he said.

"I look forward to working with the community and making sure our local communities and police are on the same page."

Superintendent Craig Ireland took command of Murrumbidgee Police District on Monday.

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