Who is above AFP?

Who Leads the Australian Federal Police?

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) operates as an independent agency within the Department of Home Affairs, playing a crucial role in national law enforcement and security. While it functions independently in its operations, the AFP is ultimately accountable to the Minister for Home Affairs, ensuring democratic oversight and alignment with government policy.

At the helm of the organisation stands the Commissioner, the most senior position within the AFP. As of October 2025, Krissy Barrett assumed the role of Commissioner, becoming the first woman to lead the force in its history—a significant milestone. Her appointment marks a new chapter for the organisation, reflecting a broader shift toward diversity and modernised leadership in Australian law enforcement.

Barrett brings with her decades of experience in policing and national security. Her career within the AFP has spanned operational command, international deployments, and strategic policy development, including key roles in counterterrorism and transnational crime. Her leadership comes at a time when the AFP faces evolving challenges—from cybercrime to foreign interference—requiring both agility and strong public trust.

Though the AFP operates independently in its investigative and enforcement duties, it does not exist in a vacuum. It reports to Parliament through the Minister for Home Affairs, who answers for the agency’s performance and budget. This structure ensures a balance between operational autonomy and political accountability.

So, who is "above" the AFP? While Commissioner Barrett leads the organisation day-to-day, the chain of responsibility ultimately leads to the Minister for Home Affairs and, by extension, the Australian public. It’s a system designed to uphold the rule of law while maintaining transparency and integrity in federal policing.