11770_vpo_policelife_spring_2021_issuu

Virtually training

Police recruits are getting immersive experience in dealing with critical incidents before they even graduate from the Victoria Police Academy, thanks to a virtual reality (VR) simulation training trial at the Operational Safety Tactics Training complex.

Equipped with a VR headset, headphones and a replica long-arm, participants are fully immersed in high-pressure scenarios including a group hostage situation at a city location, hostile vehicle incidents in confined and open spaces, and armed offenders with extremist views.

The Operational Safety Division has been trialling the simulation training since April 2021 but the program has been years in the making, with Inspector Paul O’Loughlin looking into the technology since 2017.

“This technology helps fill the void that exists in traditional training of scenarios that are too dangerous to replicate in real life,” Insp O’Loughlin said.

“The aim of this VR training is for recruits to feel more confident in making justifiable decisions in a stressful, critical incident environment where there is a perceived real threat to their life.”

Probationary constables Alannah Lewis and Jonah Carey recently completed the training and agreed that while the VR headset might look like a bit of fun, the experience was no video game.

“I was apprehensive because it was so real. My heart was racing. I was a bit sweaty. I definitely noticed the physical side of it,” Const Lewis said.

“It’s a lot to take in – there’s so much to think about with different things happening at different times and threats coming from different places, so you’ve got to be on your toes,” Const Carey said.

Operational Safety Division Superintendent Ross McNeill said the use of VR technology was reflective of Victoria Police’s reputation as a leader in modern training techniques.

“Training is an evolution that we progress in line with technologies, academic thinking and a whole range of things that come into play over time to create and enhance a better environment,” Supt McNeil said.

“By constantly evolving our training, we’re making sure our recruits and officers are getting the most relevant and useful information needed to do their jobs.”

Following the success of the trial to date, the Operational Safety Division will continue the pilot into a second phase beginning soon.

Editorial: Cassandra Stanghi Photography: Darren Tindale