Keeping NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione in the job for up to two more years wasn't prompted by a public falling-out between two of the state's highest-ranking officers, the premier says.
Cabinet signed off on the contract extension on Friday.
Premier Mike Baird says he approached Mr Scipione late last year about staying on past his anticipated September retirement date.
He has denied that fallout from a police bugging inquiry involving deputy commissioners Nick Kaldas and Catherine Burn - both of whom were seen as leading contenders to succeed Mr Scipione - had shown they were not up to the job.
"Not at all," Mr Baird told a Sydney press conference.
"This is about getting the best person for the job."
He said the decision would help ease the transition to the next commissioner.
Mr Scipione conceded there had been tensions between the deputy commissioners but said that had not influenced his decision.
"I have faith in both of those officers," Mr Scipione said.
"Certainly during the course of those hearings, in their own testimony, they indicated that whilst it has been tense, from their perspective they're simply getting on with the business. They're both remaining professional."
Mr Scipione said he felt "humbled and privileged" to be asked to stay, but added that he doubted his wife would sign off on any further extensions.
"I don't think I'd get away with it," he joked.
He said he would focus on terrorism, domestic violence and the ice epidemic during his remaining time as the state's top cop.
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