Tuesday, 13 May 2025

Ministers statements: Victoria Police

Anthony CARBINES (Ivanhoe – Minister for Police, Minister for Community Safety, Minister for Victims, Minister for Racing) (14:23): I do bring the good news to cheer up those across the aisle here, who do look a little bit long in the face. I am not really sure what bad news has crossed their faces recently, but they seem a little bit down, so I will share some good news with us all. It is my pleasure to update the house on the appointment of the new Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police.

‘If you’re a criminal, you should be worried’ – so said Mike Bush, the new Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police, when he announced with the Premier just recently that he will have a five-year appointment and will start very soon, in the next month. Mike Bush has had a long and distinguished career in New Zealand Police, where he served for six years as the commissioner, including through some of its most challenging aspects, particularly the Christchurch terror attack, where 51 people were killed, and the White Island tragedy, where dozens died. Mr Bush also oversaw a significant transformation, which saw more public trust and confidence in police, lower crime rates, a bigger focus on early intervention and also a better staff culture.

We know that on this side of the house we are focused on identifying who will be the right person to lead Victoria Police and deliver on the powers that we have given them; the new laws; the infrastructure investments; the $4.5 billion record budget; the 19 new police stations, many of which we are building right now; and the funding of an extra 3600 additional police here in Victoria. Our Made for More campaign is encouraging more people to come and join and serve the Victorian community as members of Victoria Police.

I did note, though, that those opposite, when they were asked to speak on these matters, could only make the point that Mr Bush is not a Victorian. Such is the xenophobia of those opposite – very disappointing. They did creep out just the day after the federal election – maybe they were hoping to be out there with some other people – to make an announcement where they really joined in welcoming our government’s tough new bail laws. We have heard from the Attorney-General already about the effect that is having in holding those who commit offences to account here in Victoria. We welcome Mr Bush. We look forward to his leadership of Victoria Police next month.