Police were called to Cranebrook Road, near Olive Lane, Cranebrook at 8.15pm, following reports a car had been swept off the road during heavy rainfall.

Police immediately responded but were impeded from reaching the area due to deep water on the road.

At this time, an off-duty officer was alerted to the woman’s need for help and was able to reach her, who was near his house.

He attempted to help the woman out of her car, which had been forced off the road and into a barbed-wire fence.

The fencing prevented the woman from being able to leave her car so the officer used bolt-cutters to help free the woman from the car.

The woman suffered from shock but didn't suffer any other injuries.

“The actions of this officer are more than commendable,” Penrith crime manager Detective Inspector Grant Healey said.

“He acted quickly and risked his own safety to help the woman out of a very treacherous situation,” he said.

“The woman is very lucky and has expressed her sincerest gratitude for the actions of the officer.”

The officer is expected back on duty tonight (Friday).