Wednesday, 1 May 2024

 Jeff BOURMAN (Eastern Victoria) (12:28): (505) My question is for the minister representing the Minister for Police in the other place. Minister, we are seeing an increased number of disruptive protests across Victoria that require a significant police response. It is my understanding that Victoria Police have had to respond to more than 300 protests in the last six months. This requires the deployment of additional police to the CBD, including from the mounted branch, public order response team, highway patrol and transit police. At the same time we are seeing a marked increase in crime across the state as well as in previously safe neighbourhoods as the remaining resources are having to do more with a lot less. It is working the remaining officers on the beat harder than ever as they try to fill that shortfall – all while undergoing the uncertainty of protracted EBA negotiations. So my question is: can the minister advise us what impact the ongoing protests are having on the already stretched police resources and their ability to keep the community safe.

 Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Corrections, Minister for Youth Justice, Minister for Victim Support) (12:29): I thank Mr Bourman for sharing his concern about the protests and disruption and the impact on policing. I am sure the Minister for Police will be happy to respond to that question, and I will forward that to him for a response in line with the standing orders.

 Jeff BOURMAN (Eastern Victoria) (12:29): I thank the minister for forwarding it on. Minister, the remaining police are forced to do more with less in what is already a difficult job. Stress and PTSD are rife amongst police as well as other emergency services. What is the government going to do to recognise the strain on the police this is causing and finalise the EBA?

 Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Corrections, Minister for Youth Justice, Minister for Victim Support) (12:29): I thank Mr Bourman for his supplementary and his concern around this matter. I am sure the Minister for Police will be happy to respond, and I will seek a written response from him in due course.