Criticism over disaster response is one of the reasons the NSW SES commissioner is resigning. 

Carlene York, NSW SES commissioner, says she will retire in May. 

York was the first woman to head an emergency services agency in NSW, bringing nearly four decades of experience from the NSW Police Force to the role since October 2019. 

Her leadership spanned a tumultuous period, including the 2019-20 Black Summer bushfires and the 2022 Northern Rivers floods, some of the most severe natural disasters in the state's history.

Reflecting on her tenure, York pointed to the criticism faced by the SES during the Northern Rivers floods as a pivotal challenge, both professionally and personally. 

“The criticism we got ... really hurt me personally and it hurt our volunteers,” she has told reporters. 

She says she remains committed to the welfare of the volunteers and the communities they serve. 

“They were out putting their lives on the line. It was the biggest flood event that we had ever had and …[it was] very demanding,” York added.

With York's impending retirement, Deputy Commissioners Damien Johnston and Deborah Platz will serve as acting commissioners as the search for a new head begins. 

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib says York is leaving the SES “in a stronger position to face future disasters”, highlighting her efforts in establishing a positive culture among volunteers and enhancing community preparedness. 

The announcement coincides with the appointment of NSW Police Deputy Commissioner Mal Lanyon as the acting chief executive of the state's Reconstruction Authority, following the disbandment of Resilience NSW. 

A parliamentary inquiry criticised both Resilience NSW and the SES for their response to major floods in 2022.