Some leaders command authority through rank.
Others earn it through trust, integrity, and service.
Deb Wallace APM belongs firmly in the second category.
In this powerful episode of The Courage to Lead Interview Series, Allan Sicard speaks with one of the most respected leaders in Australian policing — not just for what she achieved across 36 years of service, but how she led: with courage, compassion, authenticity, and an unwavering commitment to community safety.
From frontline policing to organised crime, from Cabramatta to Strike Force Raptor, and from tragedy to reform, Deb Wallace’s story is a masterclass in leadership that transcends uniform, title, and time.
Deb Wallace APM – Retirement That Isn’t Really Retirement
Deb’s so-called “retirement” looks very different to most.
After leaving the NSW Police Force mentally and physically well — something she acknowledges is a privilege — Deb transitioned seamlessly into community leadership. Today, she is:
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President of her local Meals on Wheels
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A Board Director of a workers’ club
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An Ambassador for the Homicide Victims Support Group
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An Ambassador for a child protection advocacy charity Hearts and Hands Community Development
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A Community Representative on the NSW State Parole Authority
Her guiding principle remains unchanged: community safety comes first.
Inside the Parole Authority: Decisions That Carry Weight
As a community representative on the Parole Authority, Deb Wallace APM, helps make decisions that profoundly affect lives — victims, families, offenders, and the broader community.
The process is rigorous, transparent, and deeply considered. Every decision is grounded in one overarching principle: risk to community safety.
What struck Allan — and will strike listeners — is Deb’s respect for the judiciary. Judges, often criticised in public discourse, are portrayed here as thoughtful, compassionate, and deeply collaborative leaders who ensure every voice at the table is heard.
Deb Wallace APM – Leadership Born from Loss: Gary and Grace Lynch
When asked about her first experience of leadership, Deb Wallace APM didn’t point to rank or promotion.
She spoke instead of Gary and Grace Lynch, parents of Anita Cobby.
In the face of unimaginable grief, they chose purpose over bitterness — founding the Homicide Victims Support Group, shaping law reform, and redefining what leadership looks like in the darkest moments.
Their philosophy — “the glass half full” — became a lifelong compass for Deb Wallace APM leadership.
Authenticity as a Leadership Strategy
Early in her career, Deb Wallace APM, received advice from 2nd Class Sergeant Joan Steadman, that would shape everything that followed:
“Never compromise your integrity or your femininity. Be true to yourself.”
In a male-dominated policing culture, she didn’t conform — she led as herself. Bright suits, strong values, and unwavering authenticity became her signature.
Her lesson is timeless: people can spot inauthentic leadership instantly.
Deb Wallace APM – Listening as a Superpower
Whether dismantling street gangs in Cabramatta, working with Father Chris Riley to divert young offenders, or transforming bikie enforcement strategies with Strike Force Raptor, one theme emerges again and again:
Deb listened.
She listened to frontline officers.
She listened to community leaders.
She even listened to gang members — not to excuse crime, but to understand pathways to prevention.
The result? Real reform. Real safety. Real change.
Leadership in Crisis: When the Unthinkable Happens
One of the most moving moments in the interview centres on a tragic police shooting involving friendly fire.
Deb Wallace APM describes leadership not as command, but as holding space — for grief, accountability, dignity, and healing.
A sergeant stepping forward to protect a leader under pressure.
A team choosing professionalism over vengeance.
A brother offering forgiveness when none was expected.
These are not textbook leadership moments.
They are human ones.
Deb Wallace APM – Designing the Ship, Not Just Steering It
Deb worked alongside giants of policing leadership — people like Clive Small, Paul McKinnon, and Graham Morgan.
One insight stands out:
“Clive didn’t steer the ship or drive the engine — he designed the boat.”
True leaders build systems, cultures, and environments where others can succeed long after they leave.
Deb did exactly that — and her influence continues today through the leaders she mentored, empowered, and inspired.
A Marching Exit — and a Guard of Honour
After 36 years of service, Deb Wallace APM marched off the parade ground the same way she marched on — with pride.
Unbeknownst to her, Strike Force Raptor stood waiting in full dress uniform to form a guard of honour.
A fitting farewell for a leader who never sought recognition — but earned it anyway.
Deb Wallace APM – Three Lessons from a Life of Leadership
When asked what advice she would give to others, Deb offered three simple truths:
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Take every opportunity offered
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See the glass half full
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Be authentic — always
Leadership, she reminds us, is not about position.
It’s about impact.