Figures released this month showed vandalism in the district had jumped more than 20 per cent in 2007 on the previous year, while assaults leapt 19.7 per cent.

“It is crucial we have a permanent leader and he must work on long-term strategies to deal with things like violence, licenced premises and underage drinking,” Murrumbidgee MP Adrian Piccoli said.

“Strong leadership is hugely important so police know what the priorities are and they have real objectives.”

Griffith LAC has been without a permanent commander since October 2006, with Inspector Tony Reneker and Detective Inspector Denise Godden sharing the role.

Griffith Residents’ and Ratepayers’ Association president Margaret MacGregor said while Superintendent Rowan’s focus should be on reducing serious crime, he must also work on building relationships with all parts of the community.

“He needs to make Griffith a place where police are respected and aren’t so aggressive,” Mrs MacGregor said.

“He needs to form good relationships with the whole community – the youth and the various cultural groups.

“And he needs to control the atmosphere in the pubs and the CBD.

“But he’s a very experienced police officer and I’m sure he'll do a good job.”

Veteran councillor John Dal Broi said the new commander would have to hit the ground running and quickly assert his leadership at the Railway Street station.

“We’ve been without a permanent commander for too long and he will have

to take charge and show the community he is going to make a difference,”

Cr Dal Broi said.