A message from the Chief Commissioner

2020 has challenged all of us in our work and private lives. Overwhelmingly, Victorians have responded responsibly and considerately.

The demands of this unprecedented year have also impacted Victoria Police. Much of the community and media focus on Victoria Police has been on

the police effort to keep the community safe, firstly from bushfires and subsequently from coronavirus (COVID-19), often at significant personal risk.

However, our broader community safety efforts have also continued throughout this period. The crime statistics for the year ending 30 June 2020 show police arrested more offenders than ever before, remanded offenders where appropriate and have now served over 500 Firearm Prohibition Orders on high-harm, high-impact criminals.

We have also been developing the organisation to better reflect the community we serve and the services we deliver. The articles in this edition of Police Life showcase many of these efforts, including:

• The trial of trained negotiators working closely with general duties police to respond to incidents involving people experiencing a mental health episode.

• The introduction of the Gender Equality and Inclusion Command and its new framework.

• A profile on Halls Gap, one of the first 16-hour stations to be staffed solely by female officers.

• Air Wing and Dog Squad combining for operations.

There is also an article on what policing may look like in 2050. Thinking about and anticipating future community safety needs is critical.

I have created a Service Delivery Transformation Command to examine the policing services the community requires and how best we deliver them.

This Command will consult widely with the community, other agencies and our workforce. We have started this process by reviewing current police involvement in schools.

Engaging with young people enables us to intervene early in offending and victimisation, and instil trust and positive attitudes towards police. Schools are a key location for police involvement and the Department of Education a key partner.

I plan to launch a contemporary program that makes a demonstrable difference to young lives in early 2021.

I wish you a safe and happy summer.