Victoria Police officers are walking off the job for the first time in over 20 years, pushing for better pay and improved working conditions. The action includes officers stopping work at the police academy and several stations, like Glen Waverley and Broadmeadows, and is part of a call for a 24% pay raise over the next four years, along with a move to 8.5-hour shifts.
Police Association Secretary Wayne Gatt explained that the walkout will last for 30 minutes and sends a clear message: officers are frustrated and want the force to address serious staffing and support issues. "Sadly, you'll see more police walking out of the Police Academy today than walking in. That's a trend Victoria Police knows all too well recently," he said.
Gatt emphasized the need for Victoria Police to engage in negotiations and actively support its workforce. With over 1,000 vacancies, more than 800 members on sick leave, and a trend of more officers leaving than joining, Gatt argued that the force needs to address these staffing shortages.
This strike follows the rejection of a government offer two months ago, which proposed a 3% pay raise and a nine-day fortnight. By contrast, nurses and midwives recently secured a 28.4% pay increase over four years.
Gatt warned that these work stoppages will likely continue across stations and units statewide until the force is ready to work toward a resolution. "Our members want Victoria Police to stop being part of the problem and instead, to return to the bargaining table and be part of the solution," he said.
This dispute reflects a broader struggle for fair treatment and resources, as officers call on leadership to support the force's future and ensure it can effectively serve the community.
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