A police complaints handling team is examining the NSW Ombudsman's report into a controversial bugging operation as two of its adversely named subjects, Nick Kaldas and Catherine Burn, vie to become the force's next commissioner.
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A selection panel will interview applicants on Friday to appoint a new commissioner before Andrew Scipione retires on April 2.
The NSW Police Association and Mr Scipione have both said the force's ranks are "stuffed full of talent" and most of those shortlisted are believed to have come from within.
Along with Mr Kaldas, a former deputy commissioner and Ms Burn, a deputy commissioner, fellow Deputy Commissioner Dave Hudson and assistant commissioners Jeff Loy, Mick Fuller and Geoff McKechnie are expected to be interviewed.
Australian Border Force head Roman Quaedvlieg is also understood to have applied. Fairfax Media reported last month that he would want a remit to undertake moderate reform at the top if appointed.
Legislation would be required to appoint Mr Kaldas, as he retired on medical grounds last year.
The process follows the publication in December of the Ombudsman's four-year, $10 million Operation Prospect inquiry report into the bugging operation, which was carried out more than a decade ago.
Ms Burn had a senior role in the operation that targeted corrupt officers but also innocent civilians and police, including Mr Kaldas.
The Prospect report found Ms Burn engaged in "unreasonable" and "unlawful" conduct and Mr Kaldas faces possible criminal charges for allegedly giving "false and misleading testimony".
Mr Kaldas described the inquiry as "a debacle and massive miscarriage of justice" that trampled on his rights as a whistleblower. Ms Burn said while she made mistakes she acted "ethically, honestly" and in accordance with the law.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian has said the selection panel will be "fully briefed" on all aspects of the Operation Prospect report.
