Suzuki Jimny joins the NSW police force

A Suzuki Jimny has joined the men and women in blue, with an accessorised example added to the Lake Macquarie Police District’s Crime Prevention Unit.

Nicknamed “Sergeant Jim,” the vehicle will be used to highlight the partnership between NSW Police and Suzuki Australia – at schools, community events, and public safety initiatives to increase police visibility and improve engagement with local residents. 

Before sending a prickly email to the local authorities, the Jimny was supplied under a sponsorship agreement – meaning no cost to the public.

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The Lake Macquarie Police District covers approximately 648 square kilometres and serves more than 221,000 people. With projected growth of over 24,000 new residents by 2036, the district is expanding its outreach and prevention efforts.

The Jimny was chosen for its recognisable design and broad appeal across age groups. Essentially limited to a paint-job, the vehicle has not been modified for active duty or off-road patrols – instead, its presence is intended to start conversations and build trust in the community.

“Sergeant Jim is more than just a vehicle, it’s a conversation starter,” said Michael Pachota, General Manager at Suzuki Australia. “In times when national crime rates are a topic of discussion, we saw an opportunity to contribute positively at a local level.”

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Suzuki’s involvement reflects the growing popularity of the Jimny in both urban and regional areas. The model has developed a strong enthusiast base in Australia, with owner events and convoys drawing hundreds of vehicles.

Sergeant Jim will not be used in frontline policing but will attend events and support the unit’s crime prevention and community engagement strategies throughout the Lake Macquarie region.

“Sergeant Jim’s livery will hopefully be a great conversation starter while on display and get more people, especially younger people, comfortable with approaching their local police,” said Superintendent Tracy Chapman APM, Lake Macquarie Police District Commander.

“The purchase of this vehicle comes at no cost to the community thanks to the generosity of Suzuki Australia in providing this vehicle for our community engagement activities.”