Harvard-educated Colvin named new AFP boss

The government has named Andrew Colvin as the new Australian Federal Police commissioner.

The government has named Andrew Colvin as Australia's new federal police commissioner. (AAP)

He's a Harvard-educated career cop who's responded to some of the worst terrorist attacks targeting Australians.

Newly appointed Australian Federal Police commissioner Andrew Colvin played a key role in the response to the 2002 Bali bombings.

Named a Member of the Order of Australia for his work, he quickly turned his attention to the Jakarta bombings in 2003 and 2004.

More recently he's been the acting commissioner of the AFP following the resignation of Tony Negus last month.

In that time he oversaw terrorism raids in three states to counter the threat posed by supporters of Islamic State.

It was a "baptism of fire", says Justice Minister Michael Keenan, in which Mr Colvin proved himself by "performing exceptionally well".

A 24-year veteran of the federal police, Mr Colvin started his career in Sydney, where he worked in countering money laundering and terrorism financing.

He was chief of staff to former commissioner Mick Keelty from 2005 to 2007 and was awarded the Australian Police Medal in 2008.

Since 2010, he's been a deputy commissioner of the AFP.

"He is eminently suited to lead the Australian Federal Police in these challenging times," Prime Minister Tony Abbott said.

He's also well qualified.

He holds a masters in public administration from Harvard and a bachelors degree from the University of New England.

Despite all his experience, Mr Colvin has no doubts serious challenges lay ahead.

"Security challenges and the security environment will dominate my term as commissioner," he said.

He added that tackling organised crime would also be a priority: "It's more pervasive than it has ever been."

Not just married to the force, Mr Colvin has a wife and two children.

Friends call him "AJ" - but colleagues will now call him boss.

THE RESUME OF AUSTRALIA'S NEW TOP COP

1990 - Joined the AFP in Sydney

2002 - Managed the response to the Bali bombings

2003 - Named a Member of the Order of Australia

2004 - Co-ordinated the response to the Australian Embassy bombing in Jakarta

2005 - Became chief of staff to former commissioner Mick Keelty until 2007

2010 - Appointed deputy commissioner of the AFP

2014 - Became acting commissioner of the AFP following resignation of Tony Negus

2014 - Appointed Australia's top cop