That's it from Mr Minns and Ms Catley.

For more coverage of this story head to the ABC News website.

Mr Lanyon is being pressed on reports that his working relationship with the police minister, Ms Catley, is tense.

"I have the greatest respect for the minister. We have had a great working relationship in the past. We're both very passionate about the Police Force and we're both committed to making it better going forward," he said.

Ms Catley shared a similar sentiment when asked about the reports, though she acknowledged "we have our challenges".

"We've sat down and spoken about those challenges and I think we'll make a great team going forward. But I will not peddle in gossip," she said.

"I outlined Mal's career over 38 years - that's what's important here. We have to have someone at the top who has the experience, knows the workforce ... and Mal is that person."

Mr Lanyon is also being asked about a New Year's Eve choice he made, which caused a stir recently.

Just last week, Mr Lanyon told the ABC he should have thought "more carefully" about the appropriateness of taking his wife and two friends onboard a police boat on Sydney Harbour on New Year's Eve in 2023.

"In hindsight yes, when I look at it now it's not something I should have done," he said.

Mr Lanyon is being asked about an incident in Goulburn years prior, described as an elephant in the room at the press conference.

His bid for the commissioner's role in 2022 fell over after reports emerged of him being found lying on a footpath before becoming aggressive towards a paramedic after an alcohol-fuelled police event in Goulburn.

"The incident happened over four and half years ago, not that that diminishes anything to do with the incident," he said.

"I deeply regret the circumstances of that evening. They were completely out of character."

Mr Lanyon said he personally reached out and apologised to the paramedics who were at the scene at the time of the incident.

Mr Minns said the candidates for the role were interviewed by both himself and Ms Catley.

He said the decision was made "together".

"We presented it [the decision] to our cabinet colleagues this morning," he said.

"He has unrivalled work ethic and he won't let both the NSW Police or the people of NSW down."

Mr Minns says the factors that led to the decision to promote Mr Lanyon to the top job "were not made on who had the mistake-free, perfect record".

"For me, it was based on who I believe should be in the commissioner's chair on NSW's worst day when the public is in danger and the NSW Police Force needs exceptional leader.

"No one wants that day and we hope that it never comes, but it could. For me as a premier but also as a citizen ... we couldn't walk past Mal Lanyon when making the decision."

Mr Minns is now speaking following the announcement.

He has described the career experience of Mr Lanyon as "distinguished" and "exceptional".

"I want to make it clear that he is the exceptional leader that the NSW Police Force needs right now."

Mr Minns said he and the police minister wish for the future of the NSW Police Force to be more "united" and "focused on combatting crime in NSW and keeping the public safe".

As NSW Police Commissioner, Mr Lanyon said his top priorities will be tackling organised crime, strengthen community safety in our regions, supporting those impacted by domestic violence and ensuring public confidence in policing.

"I also want to strengthen the culture of the NSW Police Force. Cultivate a culture of respect, professionalism, fairness and support.

"I want every officer, every member of the executive to feel part of one team."

Mr Lanyon is now reflecting on the public scrutiny that comes with the top job.

"I have made mistakes in the past and I've been open about them," he said.

"I've always sought to learn from those experiences and to lead with honesty, accountability and integrity."

He noted that "public confidence is earned" and that consistency and treating people fairly will be a focus for him.

Mr Lanyon will take the reigns of the 20,000-strong force after outgoing Commissioner Karen Webb retired.

"Can I acknowledge Commissioner Karen Webb on her distinguished 38-year career in the Police Force," Mr Lanyon said.

"She leaves a legacy of achievement as the first woman to lead the NSW Police and as as commissioner who led enduring reforms."