Former law enforcement officers Nathan Hayward and Albert Gardner will head Racing NSW's new Investigations and Surveillance unit.

Hayward has been appointed chief investigator while Gardner will be the new racecourse detective and compliance officer.

The unit will complement the work done by the stewards panel to maintain integrity in the sport.

Hayward has more than 15 years experience with the NSW Police including joint operations with ASIO, the Australian Federal Police and the NSW Crime Commission.

Gardner is an experienced regulator having been designated a detective/investigator with federal and state agencies including the NSW Police Force, Australian Federal Police, National Crime Authority and the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption.

"The Investigations and Surveillance Unit will add a range of expertise and be a valuable adjunct to the stewards panel by being proactive in the industry in ensuring the integrity of NSW racing remains at the highest level," Racing NSW chief executive Peter V'Landys said.

Meanwhile, John Davidson has been named as the new chairman of stewards for the southern districts, based in Wagga Wagga, replacing Geoff Hausfeld.

Davidson has more than 20 years experience as a stipendiary steward in NSW and has been employed by the Singapore Turf Club since 2007.