On behalf of the Victorian Government, I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of Sinclair Imrie “Mick” Miller AO, LVO, QPM, and offer my condolences to his family, friends and Victoria Police during this difficult time.
Mr Miller was an iconic figure within the force who was greatly admired by current and former police officers.
He had a highly distinguished career at Victoria Police, which spanned more than 40 years and culminated in serving as Victoria’s 16th Chief Commissioner between 1977 and 1987.
He made a significant and lasting mark on the organisation, after championing equal rights for women at Victoria Police, establishing a new policing structure and taking a strong stance against organised crime and corruption.
During his term, Victoria Police had the greatest percentage of women of any police force nationally after he introduced women onto the general seniority list, so that they could enjoy equal career opportunities.
He also introduced taskforce policing, the Air Wing and the Special Operations Group, which still exist today.
Mr Miller pushed for a national body to investigate organised crime and was the first senior policeman to advocate external anti-corruption bodies.
Victoria Police Legacy was formed under his stewardship in 1980, along with Crime Stoppers in 1987.
In his retirement, Mr Miller continued serving the community by volunteering his time.
His contribution to the force and the Victorian community was recognised through the awards and honours he received, including the Office of the Order of Australia, ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Medal, Queen’s Police Medal, Australian Sports Medal, and Lieutenant in the Royal Victorian Order.
I offer my sincerest condolences to everyone who is grieving the loss of Mr Miller, including the entire Victoria Police community. His great legacy will live on through his many contributions to Victoria and policing.