New Assistant Commissioners appointed

Two of South Australia’s most accomplished police officers, the pair have a combined 81 years of experience across general and specialist areas within SA Police.

Assistant Commissioner Hilliard has been appointed head of the Crime Service, while Assistant Commissioner O’Donovan will head the Metropolitan Operations Service. Both have been acting in those positions for extended periods.

Commissioner Stevens said the depth of experience of both officers ensured they were well equipped to lead the two crucial commands.

“Both have demonstrated their ability over an extended period and I Iook forward to seeing them serve the community of South Australia into the future,’’ he said.

Assistant Commissioner Hilliard joined SAPOL in 1987 and has worked in areas including general patrols, suburban CIB units, Major Crime, Organised Crime, Anti-Corruption Branch and the Public Protection Branch.

“This is an enormous responsibility that I do not take lightly. I am committed and dedicated to the organisation, the well-being of the workforce and the safety of the community,” she said.

A veteran of 41 years in SA Police, Assistant Commissioner O’Donovan has worked in areas including STAR Group, metropolitan districts, State Protective Security Branch and on extensive projects involving counter terrorism.

“It is a great honour to have been entrusted with this role and I look forward to leading the Metropolitan Operations Service and contributing to the future success of SA Police,” he said.

Both appointments take effect from Tuesday 6 October 2026.

The appointment of the two Assistant Commissioners follows the retirement of John Venditto in June and John DeCandia this month.