NSW Police Force Information

Overview & Network Architecture

• Encryption: Secured statewide using Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) with 256-bit keys.
• Coverage Area: State-wide access across urban metropolitan, regional, and remote districts.
• Talkgroups: Includes General Duties, Highway Patrol, Dog Squad, Tactical Operations, and regional command channels.
• Interoperability: Authorized units can access ESO/GL (Emergency Services Organisation / Government Liaison) channels for multi-agency coordination with Fire, Ambulance, and SES.

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Talkgroup IDs (TGIDs)

NSW Police occupies large blocks of encrypted talkgroups on the PSN network:

• TGID Ranges: Typically located in the 12000–12110 block and extended ranges.
• Assignments: Allocated to specific Police Area Commands (PACs) or Districts (PDs). For instance, lower blocks serve Sydney Metropolitan general duties, while higher sequential channels cover regional Traffic and Highway Patrol sectors.

Note: Exact channel mappings are restricted operational data; specific regional allocations are inferred via metadata observation.

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Radio IDs (RIDs)

Police radio hardware uses distinct unit identifier ranges to distinguish vehicles, portables, and dispatch consoles:

Scanner Tip: Lock out these RIDs and associated police TGIDs on your digital receiver to prevent constant squelch triggers on un-decodable audio streams.

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Operational Use & Monitoring Limitations

• Dispatch & Special Units: PAC dispatch, tactical, marine, aviation, and major event temporary talkgroups remain fully locked down.
• Metadata Visibility: While voice data cannot be monitored, advanced logging software can capture activity logs, P25 system IDs, and RID/TGID handshakes.
• Public Monitoring Scope: Public scanner hobbyists are restricted to unencrypted agencies such as the SES, RFS, Fire & Rescue, or utility providers.

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How Encryption Functions on the PSN

Legal Framework & Operational Security

Under the Telecommunications (Interception and Access) Act 1979 and relevant state legislation, attempting to intercept or bypass encrypted public safety transmissions is strictly prohibited. Encryption protects:

• Tactical responses and frontline officer safety
• Confidential personal information of callers and victims
• Secure multi-agency command structures during critical incidents