The ACT Government has unveiled an unprecedented commitment to enhance community safety by investing over $107 million in the recruitment of 126 ACT Policing personnel over the next five years. This represents the largest single investment ever made in ACT Policing.
The substantial financial commitment will enable the commencement of an additional annual recruit course for the next five years, further fortifying the ranks of ACT Policing.
The new officers will be deployed across a range of priority areas consistent with the new police services model and the statement of direction from the Minister for Police. This includes additional police in suburban growth areas such as Molonglo and Gungahlin, and established areas such as Tuggeranong, Woden, Weston Creek, Belconnen and Central Canberra.
Alongside this recruitment drive, the funding will be used to expand crucial supporting resources, including the provision of vehicles, body-worn cameras, and operational equipment. These enhancements will significantly bolster the capabilities of our dedicated officers in their efforts to ensure the safety and security of the community.
Recognising the importance of proactive policing, the ACT Government will continue to support the operations of an additional Police Ambulance and Clinician Early Response (PACER) team in 2023-24, which will be available daily throughout the ACT. This sustained commitment will enable a more vigilant and responsive approach to mental health support.
Furthermore, the allocation of resources will facilitate an increase in the staffing profile at the Watch House, better assuring the safety and security of individuals held in custody and the dedicated officers of ACT Policing. By enhancing the operational capacity of the Watch House, the ACT Government reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the well-being of law enforcement personnel.
In line with the ACT Government’s strategic vision for the future, a feasibility study will be conducted to assess the potential requirements for future police station facilities in the Woden and City districts, as well as for the ACT Policing headquarters. This comprehensive evaluation will ensure that our police force operates from modern and fit-for-purpose facilities, further optimising their ability to protect and serve the community effectively.
Quotes attributable to ACT Chief Minister, Andrew Barr:
“The ACT Government’s historic investment in ACT Policing underscores its unwavering commitment to public safety and the well-being of the community.”
“By strengthening our police numbers and providing essential resources, we empower our officers to confront the evolving challenges of crime prevention and enforcement effectively.
“The safety of our community is our utmost priority, and this significant investment in our police force demonstrates our commitment to providing a safe environment for all residents of the ACT.
Quotes attributable to ACT Minister Police and Emergency Services
“The ACT Government’s investment underscores our ongoing commitment to ensuring a safe and resilient community.”
“This funding injection represents a significant change for ACT Policing. With additional officers and modern resources, they will be better equipped to respond to the evolving challenges of law enforcement and to protect the rights and safety of the people we serve.”
“By bolstering our police numbers and equipping them with the necessary resources, police will be better able to respond to incidents and the evolving needs of the ACT community, and to continue to address recidivist offenders who commit significant crimes across the ACT.”
