WAPU Police News December 2017

DECEMBER 2017

PTSD first responder course saving lives Course saves life of police officer

Annual Conference Full coverage and motions from this year’s event

New WAPU App WAPU expands its communication options

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE

WA

POLICE UNION

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DEC 2017

POLICE NEWS THE MAGAZINE FOR THE WA POLICE UNION

CONTENTS

10

‘First responder PTSD course saved my life’ Mick Sears tells his story to Police News for the first time.

14

New WAPU App to help keep Members informed App is ready to download today.

16

WAPU condemns the McGowan Government Delegates at the 81st Annual Conference condemn the Government.

4 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

19

Automated network to help police catch crooks WAPU suggests use of Automated Number Plate Recognition to create virtual fishing net.

20

Annual Conference Dinner Social Pictures

06 WAPU DIRECTORS AND STAFF 08 P RESIDENT’S REPORT 40 INDUSTRIAL REPORT 42 FIELD REPORT 45 LEGAL 46 M EMBER BENEFITS

Were you snapped by our photographer at the Dinner?

22

Annual Conference Motions

39

Hitting the Holland Track The WAPU Adventure Club tackles its first trip.

47 H EALTH 49 M OTORING 50 ENTERTAINMENT 53 RETIREMENTS, RESIGNATIONS AND VALE 55 F ROM THE ARCHIVES

WA

POLICE UNION

639 Murray Street West Perth WA 6005 P (08) 9321 2155 F (08) 9321 2177 E admin@wapu.org.au OFFICE HOURS Monday-Friday 7am-4pm AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY DIRECTOR 0438 080 930 www.wapu.org.au Follow us facebook.com/WAPoliceUnion Twitter @WAPoliceUnion PUBLISHED BY WA Police Union 639 Murray Street West Perth WA 6005 (08) 9321 2155 ADVERTISING WA Police Union (08) 9321 2155 DISCLAIMER WAPU (“Publisher�) advises that the contents of this publication are the sole discretion of the WA Police Union and the magazine is offered for information purposes only. The publication has been formulated in good faith and the Publisher believes its contents to be accurate, however, the contents do not amount to a recommendation (either expressly or by implication) and should not be relied upon in lieu of specific professional advice. The Publisher disclaims all responsibility for any loss or damage which may be incurred by any reader relying upon the information contained in the publication whether that loss or damage is caused by any fault or negligence on the part of the Publishers, its Directors or employees.

COPYRIGHT All materials in this publication are subject to copyright and written authorisation from WAPU is required prior to reproduction in any form.

ADVERTISING Advertisements in this journal are solicited from organisations and businesses on the understanding that no special considerations other than those normally accepted in respect of commercial dealings, will be given to the advertiser. All advertising is undertaken in good faith and WAPU takes no responsibility for information contained in advertisements.

COVER Mick Sears was recently retired medically unfit by the WA Police Force after suffering PTSD. ABOVE Delegates voted on more than 70 motions at Annual Conference.

Pictures: Jody D'Arcy.

WA

POLICE UNION

GEORGE TILBURY President 0409 105 898

BRANDON SHORTLAND Senior Vice President 0419 802 650

HARRY ARNOTT Vice President 0407 989 008

24/7 EMERGENCY DIRECTOR

MICK KELLY Treasurer & 24/7 Emergency 0438 080 930

Bunbury Australind Central Great Southern

Board of Directors

Great Southern Leeuwin Naturaliste Lower South West

Perth Police Centre Perth Watch House

WARD ADAMSON Director 0457 603 311

DAVE CURTIS Director 0400 864 591

Commissioned Officers

Eastern Goldfields

Professional Standards

North Eastern Goldfields

Prosecuting

South East Eyre

LINDSAY GARRATT Director 0407 775 050

MICK GILL Director 0427 097 000

Academy

Avon

Maylands Complex

Central Midlands

State Traffic Operations

Central West Coast Eastern Wheatbelt Gascoyne

South West Hinterland

Geraldton

Upper Great Southern

Murchison

Staff PAUL HUNT Secretary 6 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

CHRIS VITLER WENDY ROUTHAN Executive Finance Manager Personal Assistant

JESSICA PORTER Media Officer

STEVEN GLOVER Media Officer

KATRINA TAYLOR ANDREA WYLLIE Industrial Industrial Officer Officer

BOARD OF DIRECTORS & STAFF

PETER McGEE Director 0418 938 354

MICHAEL PATERSON Director 0412 224 374

PETER POTTHOFF Director 0407 476 679

Major Crime

Air Wing

Fremantle

Serious & Organised Crime

Armadale / Gosnells

Licensing Enforcement

Intelligence Services

Cannington

Water Police

MARK JOHNSON Director 0488 352 525

KEVIN McDONALD Director 0447 817 181

East Kimberley

Joondalup

Fortescue

Mirrabooka

North Pilbara

Northern ROG

MICHAEL HENDERSON Director 0448 803 155

West Kimberley West Pilbara

MATTHEW PAYNE Research Officer

Sex Crimes

CARL STEWART Field Officer

Cockburn Central

DEAN GIACOMINI Field Officer

KELLY LOWE Finance Officer

Midland Midland Workshops

PENNY BROWN Member Services Officer

HARRY RUSSELL Director 0412 585 429 Mandurah Rockingham / Kwinana TEG South Southern ROG

KIM RICHARDS Administration Officer

BRANCH PRESIDENTS Academy Andy Seery Air Wing John Gobbels Armadale-Gosnells Anntoinette Cashmore Avon Dave Flaherty Bunbury Australind Matt Fogarty Cannington Lynda McCutcheon Central Great Dave Groenenberg Southern Central Midlands Peter Toia Central West Coast Wayne Shaw Cockburn Central Matt Turner Commissioned Noreen O'Rourke Officers Eastern Goldfields Bryn Papalia East Kimberley Blair Moulton East Metropolitan Cliff Daurat Eastern Wheatbelt Dayna Rigoir Fremantle Julian Donohoe Fortescue Russell Evans Gascoyne Kurt Weedon Geraldton Glenn Wishart Great Southern Danny Richmond Intelligence Services Contact WAPU HQ Joondalup Scott Sulley Leeuwin Naturaliste Tim Saxon Licensing Michael Sedgman Enforcement Lower South West Sasa Dzaferovic Major Crime Manus Walsh Mandurah Harry Russell Maylands Jon Groves Midland Workshops Steve Marks Mirrabooka Steve Meakins Murchison Aaron Cleaver North Eastern Chelsea Armstrong Goldfields North Pilbara Lance Munckton Northern ROG Cris Marzo Perth Police Centre Peter Henry Perth Watch House Jen Hill (Vice President)

Professional Ian Moore Standards Prosecuting Jarred Gerace Rockingham Kwinana Warren Dowbysch Serious & Peter Birch Organised Crime Sex Crimes Bill Mansas South East Eyre Emily Woodland Southern ROG Mark Crossley South West Dave Holmberg Hinterland State Intelligence Peter Potthoff State Traffic Paul Gale Operations Traffic Enforcement Steve Jaworksi Group North Traffic Enforcement Dave Summer Group South Upper Great Dorry Grzinic Southern WAPU NOW Amity Hudson Water Police Brendan Packard West Kimberley Neil Vanderplank West Pilbara Steve Innerd

7 POLICE NEWS OCTOBER 2017

GEORGE TILBURY President

Final wage Offer AT THE TIME OF GOING TO PRINT, the online ballot for the final Offer to settle our Industrial Agreement negotiations had just opened.

The Offer is a two-year deal with salary increases of $1,000 per annum and it includes a number of police-specific items.

The ballot will close on Monday, December 18 and if the Offer is rejected, arbitration will follow. If accepted, Members will receive the $1,000 increase backdated to July 1 with the second increase to come in effect on July 1, 2018.

WAPU briefed Branch Delegates at Annual Conference and communicated information about the Offer to all Members to ensure they make an educated decision when voting.

Time will tell whether this Offer is good enough – with Members having the final say.

ANNUAL CONFERENCE Our 81st Annual Conference was a busy three days as we debated more than 70 motions, discussed issues from around the State, listened to some engaging technology speakers and of course, discussed the Industrial Agreement.

Delegates voted to condemn the Government for its treatment of police officers in this State.

The Commissioner of Police also used his address to announce that he has allowed Members to grow beards. This “divisive” issue has been around for some time and the major

It was embarrassing that neither of the major parties made a strong commitment to police numbers and both are going to be held to account when crime surges and response times blow out.

8

positive with the announcement is that we can put this issue to bed once and for all and get on with more important matters.

Go to page 16 for a full wrap up of Annual Conference and page 22 for the outcomes of the motions.

Members can stay up to date on the progress of motions via our website.

NEW WAPU APP WAPU has modernised its technology with the release of our very first WAPU App. The App is now available to download to your device and I strongly encourage that you do so to ensure you stay up to date with all of our communications.

The first update will include push notifications which will mean you will be notified when we release newsletters and other important announcements, which is particularly important when you are on leave and away from your work email account.

Thank you to our App Developer, Stretch Creative and our Media Team for their hard work on this project.

COMMISSIONER’S REVIEW WAPU has made a submission to the Commissioner of Police’s review of the WA Police Force.

Our submission focused on 10 key points which were: Reform of WA Police Metropolitan Operating Model; Accoutrements in court complexes; Access to PPE body armour and long arm rifles; Enhance vehicle pursuit policy and capabilities; Upgrades to station security; The welfare function of the Health and Safety Division; Improving the medical retirement process; Standard rosters of 10-hour shifts; Cost and quality of Government Regional Officer Housing; and level of unsworn authority.

We are eagerly awaiting the outcome of the review which Mr Dawson said at Annual Conference was not pretty reading.

PRESIDENT'S REPORT

01 02

RECRUITING SUSPENDED

FAREWELL DAVE LAMPARD

The WA Police Force is no longer recruiting new police officers.

With a large pool of applicants already awaiting a position in a recruit squad and no further commitment to additional police officers, recruiting has been frozen until at least July 1, 2018.

The WA Police Force is facing a testing period. With tight budgets, a token commitment to additional frontline police numbers and increasing workloads across the State, which is putting immense pressure on our Members, the Force needs to find the balance between the bottomline and the frontline.

In the lead up to the State Election, we called for an additional 1,000 police officers, the former Commissioner said he needed at least 500 and disappointingly there will only be just over 100.

It was embarrassing that neither of the major parties made a strong commitment to police numbers and both are going to be held to account when crime surges and response times blow out.

We now know, after the election, had one side made an announcement to increase police numbers then it would have been matched by the other.

That is simply not good enough and both parties need to strongly reconsider their stance on law and order because come 2021, we will need more than 1,000 police officers to keep up with demand and the unrelenting pressure, so best they start finding the money to fund a massive commitment.

After 13 years as a Field Officer, Dave Lampard has decided to enjoy three months long service leave prior to commencing his retirement in March next year.

Dave has been a tremendous servant of WAPU, firstly as a Member, then a Director before he “retired” from policing to work full time for the Union.

On behalf of everyone who has worked with Dave and the broader membership, thank you for your service and I hope that you, Ann and your beloved French bulldogs, Wendy and Bodie, enjoy retirement.

Former police officer Carl Stewart has commenced as our new Field Officer. Carl resigned from the WA Police Force in 2012, to move interstate, after 21 years on the frontline and has now returned.

01 Ian Moore, Dave Lampard and Paul Gale enjoy Mr Lampard’s final Annual Conference Dinner.

02 President George Tilbury addresses the media at Annual Conference.

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR This is our final Police News for 2017 and it has been a massive year for all of us in policing.

While many Members will have to work throughout the holiday period, I hope that you can spend some quality time with your loved ones over the festive break.

Merry Christmas, stay safe and Happy New Year.

9

‘First responder PTSD course saved my life’

BY JESSICA PORTER

10 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

This article contains descriptions of traumatic incidents. If this raises issues for you, please contact the Employee Assistance Program counsellors on 1300 361 008.

Sergeant Mick Sears was medically retired from the WA Police Force after giving 29 years and eight months of his life to the community of Western Australia. He was thrown out last month, still under the same process as officers who have committed serious acts of misconduct.

Mick Sears has been battling PTSD for more than a decade after policing exposed him to numerous traumatic incidents.

When his medical retirement letter came on November 17, it was years in the making. After being at many small country police stations, Mick was exposed to serious and damaging trauma almost on a weekly basis.

Despite the loss of a beloved and fulfilling career, Mick says he is still lucky to walk away with his life.

He credits coping with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder with the successful completion of the Hollywood Clinic’s Trauma Recovery and Growth Program and its in-patient services.

Mick says his struggle with PTSD robbed him of his career and marriage but he is speaking publicly for the first time in the hope of encouraging other police officers to see the signs of this psychological injury and to seek help before it is too late.

It was about a decade ago when Mick first caught a glimpse of how the effects of trauma were taking hold.

He was Officer In Charge of Boddington Police Station at a changing time for the small mining town. The Boddington Gold Mine was under construction and there were about 10,000 contractors driving the country roads every day.

“There was just sheer carnage on the roads,” Mick told Police News. “We had so many deaths. All of us were doing two or three fatal files and were dealing with a lot of serious crashes.”

Faced with such a huge number of fatalities with only three other officers at the station, it was difficult to get any respite.

“Work wise, I was under a lot of pressure because I just didn’t have the staff. So I was being called out all the time and the lack of sleep just started to get to me,” he said.

The symptoms of PTSD also raised their head after Mick was the initial officer at a horrific murder scene in late 2007.

Stacey Thorne was 22 weeks pregnant when she was stabbed 21 times in her chest. Mick found her bloodied body after she tried to crawl from her home down the street to get help.

Court documents described the murder as “savage and determined” and also detailed how the offender, Scott Douglas Austic, had left her to die a slow and painful death.

“You also left Ms Thorne to bleed to death in her bedroom and she did not immediately die,” Justice Peter Blaxell said in 2009 while sentencing Austic to a minimum of 25 years in prison.

“In that regard it is dreadful to contemplate the agony she must have suffered during her last 20 to 30 minutes.”

After attending the murder, Mick again knew he wasn’t coping.

“I started to get angry about things and that wasn’t me; I was more of a joke-about type of person. My marriage was starting to suffer because I wasn’t talking about what I was seeing,” he said.

Mick did reach out to Health and Welfare (as it was then named) but he felt he was not appropriately cared for.

So, instead of taking time away from policing to process the trauma and focus on self-care, Mick packed up his belongings and transferred to Newman, where he thought he could make a difference to the lives of Aboriginal people.

But the same dark shadow of PTSD followed him.

“I just about burnt myself out,” he said. “I just found myself getting angry. I would be upset and cry at the drop of a hat.”

After years of psychological trauma, Mick was nearly ready to erupt.

“But I just threw myself into work,” he said.

However, his then-wife was transferred to Perth, leaving Mick alone in the town for seven months.

Eventually, Mick secured a spot at Regional Operations Group South. But the same cycle of being unable to process the trauma again made him pack up after his tenure and move to Blackstone MFPF. He said he had to get back to the bush and away from large crowds. Despite being at one of the most remote stations in WA, his troubles kept him company.

“I remember one time I was travelling to Alice Springs by myself and I came across a horse that had been hit by a car on one of the outback roads. I sat with it for about two hours because its legs were broken. It was a really hot day and I gave it some water but it took me two hours to get the courage to shoot it,” Mick said as he held back tears.

The penultimate moment for Mick was when he was determined to end his life inside the Blackstone MFPF. Mick walked into the armoury, took out his police-issued glock and placed it to his temple.

In that moment between life and death, Mick’s mind filled with memories of his family. He did not want to leave them without a son, husband and brother. His mind also turned to his colleague, who would have been confronted with the task of cleaning up Mick’s body.

He returned the gun to his holster and walked out. ▷ 11 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

01

This would be one of the last times Mick would ever walk out of a station as a serving police officer.

“I went home and just fell apart,” he said.

He then spent 16 weeks at Hollywood Clinic and was put on medication to control the symptoms of PTSD. After a year of sick leave, Mick was boarded out medically unfit.

“I got a Section 8 last Thursday (November 17) because I’m not a fit person, which is probably right. I’m not a fit person to be a police officer now, but to be thrown out under the same section that somebody who committed a serious offence would be thrown out, is wrong.”

“My marriage is finished and it’s very hard to keep on going,” he said.

However, being able to process the trauma, understand PTSD and learn coping strategies through the Trauma Recovery and Growth Program has helped Mick immeasurably.

“It’s the only thing that’s kept me alive,” Mick said.

“I learnt that it’s an injury, it’s not just an illness. Your brain is not designed to see the traumas and deal with the things we do without some coping mechanisms.”

Dr Matthew Samuel is a psychiatrist with 21 years’ experience and is the program’s clinical lead.

The need for a first responder PTSD course was recognised about five years ago when they started receiving calls from paramedics, military veterans, police officers and firefighters needing help to recover from the trauma of their jobs.

The four-week program was borne out of a general 10-week PTSD course.

The first responder course consists of group therapy, individual psychotherapy and provides families with the opportunity to understand what their loved ones are going through.

12 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

“One important aspect is that we are far removed from the police force. Although we get paid by the police force, we have no obligation to the department. Our obligation is to the person sitting in front of us.”

01 Dr Matthew Samuel said symptoms of PTSD can include nightmares, unwanted and obtrusive thoughts, triggering sights, smells or sounds and hypervigalence. 02 Medically retired Sergeant Mick Sears is advocating for new recruits to be told of the trauma they may experience before they enter the police force. 03 Jasmin has been by Mick’s side helping him get through the pain of PTSD for the past year.

However, before the frontline officer or veteran enters the program, they are comprehensively assessed by Dr Samuel and his colleagues.

“We look at the diagnosis first and then we look to see if there are any co-morbid conditions, such as alcohol abuse, sleeping pill addiction or whether they have any other substance abuse,” Dr Samuel said.

The clinic team also look at other physical injuries such as traumatic head injuries, which can often be associated with long-term anxiety symptoms. They also determine if the officer has any other metabolic syndromes like diabetes or hypertension, which could diminish the effectiveness of medication.

“A lot of people with PTSD also suffer from poor sleep, so sleep hygiene is very important. We make sure that a sleep assessment is done and then we look at whether they need any short-term medications… before we start the therapy.”

The group sessions help the officer understand that they are not alone with their PTSD and others also experience similar symptoms.

“We cannot delete their trauma but what we can do is to help them understand the trauma and teach them various coping strategies such as relaxation methods,” Dr Samuel said.

One of the treatments the clinic uses to help patients process trauma is Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).

This treatment is based on the idea that the brain does not process traumatic events properly and that eye movement, guided by a therapist, can help the person recall the traumatic event and process it.

Approximately three to four programs are run throughout the year, with a maximum of eight participants per group.

The groups can consist of a mix of frontline first responders and service veterans and the clinic treats about 30 to 40 people per year.

“But we know that the statistics show, this is not the number of people with PTSD. It is a significant underrepresentation,” he said.

Many first responders do not put their hands up for help, which accounts for the low number of people receiving treatment.

“A lot of police officers have a lot of pride in the work they’ve done and they don’t want to be seen as weak,” Dr Samuel said.

“There is a culture that when people put their hand up and say they’ve had a nervous breakdown, they are stigmatised in the workplace, especially in policing.”

So Dr Samuel and his team work very closely with the officer to ensure they earn their trust and confidence.

“One important aspect is that we are far removed from the police force. Although we get paid by the police force, we have no obligation to the department. Our obligation is to the person sitting in front of us,” he said.

During the program, discussions are also had with the officer to determine their future path.

“It involves careful negotiations with the police officer and how, in a dignified way, what our recommendation is, and to make sure that we support that person to either early retirement or to seek another job, or if they can be retrained or employed as non-operational.”

Dr Samuel estimates that more than 50 per cent of participants return to work.

“About 10 per cent of people are not suitable to continue frontline work, so we encourage them to medically discharge and we support them through that process. We also keep them in ongoing therapy.”

However, Dr Samuel is disappointed with the medical retirement process currently used by the WA Police Force and said it was unfair on the officer.

“It doesn’t do that police officer justice,” he said. “It is not a dignified way to exit the police. They are wounded in service and we don’t give that credit to them for the amount of work and the commitment they gave.”

Mick also mirrors Dr Samuel’s comments.

“Not so long ago I was a well-respected member of the community. Everywhere I went I tried to help people. You work with guys and girls that feel the same way you do, but now, it feels as though I have just been thrown on the scrap heap. There is no support within the Agency,” he said.

Through this program, Mick was also able to meet the requirements to be granted an incredible service dog, Jasmin.

The Belgian Malinois was a former military dog who now helps Mick with his anxiety and PTSD symptoms.

“It was recognised that I really needed a dog. A psychiatrist signed all the paperwork and I was given Jas through the group Veterans Helping Veterans,” Mick said.

“She’s trained to wake me up if I’m having nightmares and when I was having flashbacks, she would look after me. She just knows, she picks up when I’m not well. Without her, I wouldn’t know what to do with myself.”

Mick said he now wants to work with frontline workers to raise awareness of PTSD. “I need something to keep me going, that’s why I want to try and help out my colleagues and other emergency service workers. There are so many people who suffer with this,” he said.

“Most people have a glass half full of life’s pressures. Well, we have that but then we have our job pressures on top.”

Dr Samuel said there is currently a memorandum of understanding between the Hollywood Clinic program and Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defence.

He is seeking the same arrangement with the WA Police Force.

“What the MOU would do would give us access to police officers without a GP referral, then they can just call us,” he said.

“The more that door is open, then the more people we can help.”

“… but now, it feels as though I have just been thrown on the scrap heap. There is no support within the Agency.”

02 03

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE PROGRAM, visit

www.hollywoodclinic.com.au/Our-Programs/Trauma-Recoveryand-Growth-Program or attend your local GP for a referral.

13 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

DOING MORE FOR MEMBERS

New WAPU App to help keep Members informed After more than 12 months of development, the new WAPU App is ready to download.

In keeping with the Technology theme of the WAPU Annual Conference, the first-ever WAPU App was launched.

By using the same username and password as the WAPU Website, Members can log in once and the App remembers their credentials.

Via the App, Members can access a variety of information including newsletters, industrial agreements and book the ever-popular WAPU holiday homes.

The App was developed by Stretch Creative whose Director Mark Higham was on hand at Conference to explain the new technology to Delegates.

Mr Higham said the new App now will allow Members to access existing information from the website and in a way that's more convenient and easier for them to use. “Users can just tap an icon on their home screen rather than going to their browser,� he said.

02

01

14 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

01 The new WAPU App allows Members to easily access information with a single tap. 02 President George Tilbury and Stretch Creative Director Mark Higham with the new App. 03 Members can access a variety of information and services via App such as holiday home bookings, newsletters and Police News.

“Using the app is faster than using the website and it will use up less of your data plan. The app also saves content that you view so you can still refer to it if you're offline.

“Once the App is downloaded, it will be automatically updated when new features are available.”

Mr Higham said the holiday home booking request form now has a much easier to use interface.

“Booking has been made simpler with only a single tap required to request the date Members desire,” he said.

President George Tilbury said the creation of a tailoredapp for mobile devices has been on the Board’s agenda for a number of years.

“The Board has been weighing up the benefits of an App for several years however, initially it was cost prohibitive,” he said.

“Stretch Creative have used a new technique which means the App works with our website which brought the cost of creating the App down significantly.

“We hope that Members will take full advantage of this new technology as it will allow them to access important information quicker and easier.”

Mr Tilbury thanked Stretch Creative for its work developing and delivering the App. “Stretch Creative have been great to work with on this project, their hard work and dedication has delivered a superb product and we trust Members will all enjoy using this App, which will modernise our communications,” he said.

“The App means that we will no longer be solely reliant on using the WA Police Force email system so, hopefully we will have a very high percentage of Members download the App. “The next version of the App will have push notifications which will allow us to get important announcements right to Members’ devices, no matter if they are on or off duty.”

YOU CAN DOWNLOAD THE WAPU APP directly to your

mobile device via the Apple iTunes Store or Google Play by searching “WA Police Union”.

“The App means that we will no longer be solely reliant on using the WA Police Force email system so, hopefully we will have a very high percentage of Members download the App.”

03

15 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

01

WAPU condemns the McGowan Government BY STEVEN GLOVER

The 81st WA Police Union Annual Conference saw Delegates condemn the State Government for its treatment of police officers.

01 Delegates at Annual Conference listen to one of the technology speakers.

02 Commissioner of Police Chris Dawson said the WA Police Force needed to embrace technology. 03 George Tilbury thanked Members for their support of the industrial campaign. 04 Police Minister Michelle Roberts said it was her personal priority to deliver a workers compensation scheme for police officers.

16 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

Following months of negotiations, changes to the parameters and a paltry $1,000 pay offer, Members were furious and the motion backed this up.

In his opening address, WAPU President George Tilbury said in the lead up to the State Election, Labor promised to match the Liberal-National Government’s State Wages Policy, then set at 1.5 per cent per annum.

“In May, Mr McGowan changed the goalposts, offering Members a flat $1,000,” he said.

“Unlike some work groups, we were not given any warning of the change. During that time, we were in the midst of negotiations, if you can call them that, and were demanding an offer to take to our Members.

“The bureaucrats dragged their heels and by the time they came up with the offer, Mr McGowan and his Government changed the parameters for negotiation.

“Our Members have worked to rule, removed good will and rallied at Parliament House.

“They are incensed by how this new Government has treated and disrespected them.”

Mr Tilbury also hit back at comments Premier Mark McGowan made about the Union’s leadership.

“This would never have happened to an affiliated union,” he said.

“I’m proud to say that I am the President of a union that truly stands up for its Members. We are staunchly independent and are not aligned with any other unions in this State.”

He also thanks Members for their support of the campaign for a fair and reasonable wage offer.

“You already put up with the lowest society has to offer, you meet people on the worst days of their lives, work

ANNUAL CONFERENCE

02

extremely hard every day and you put your body on the line for our community,” he said.

“You deserve better. Thank you for supporting the various phases of our campaign. Your commitment certainly assisted the cause, as did the overwhelming community support. I also want to thank you for the strong turnout at our rally in August.”

Minister for Police Michelle Roberts officially opened the Annual Conference and discussed the impact the State’s crippling finances were having on the budget.

“It (the debt) has meant some really difficult decisions for our Government, the biggest of which is our Government Wages Policy,” Mrs Roberts said.

“The advice is we just can’t keep spending, we can’t continue the recurrent debt, and it is the recurrent debt, the year in, year out spending that is killing our budget.”

Mrs Roberts said the police budget had no allocation for additional police officers; it could not absorb the GROH rent increase; and there were no funds set aside for the meth taskforce.

“So whilst I was excited and indeed delighted to once again be your Police Minister, I was not at all happy with the situation that I’d inherited, a budget with big black holes and no money for necessary future programs and upgrades.”

The Minister said it was her personal priority to deliver a workers' compensation scheme for police officers.

Commissioner of Police Chris Dawson attended his first Annual Conference in his new role and was quick to clarify changes to the uniform as well as changes to allow police officers to grow beards.

“I want my officers to be safe on the frontline and I also want them to look smart and professional and wearing uniforms that are practical and recognisable,” he said.

The approved new issue police uniforms were on display at the Conference. ▷

“Your commitment certainly assisted the cause, as did the overwhelming community support.”

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“… I was very disappointed to learn that the WA Police Force is the last force to be roll out with smart devices and mobility tablets.”

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Mr Dawson said he was surprised that beards were so high up on the agenda of items people were seeking.

“If you are a slave to fashion, by March 1 you will be able to turn up to work with a beard but what I can say if you can’t grow a beard don’t bother,” he said.

“If you do want a beard, you will need to take three weeks’ leave, as we do not want people coming to work unshaven. There will be some requirements if you are attached to a specialist team requiring gas mask use.”

Mr Dawson also touched on the need for the WA Police Force to embrace technology and committed to roll out tablets in 2018.

“The fact that our force is the last force in Australia to roll out a smart device/tablet mobility program is not good,” he told Conference.

“I recently met with all Australasian Police Commissioners including those from New Zealand and I was very disappointed to learn that the WA Police Force is the last force to roll out smart devices and mobility tablets.

“One perverse benefit of us being last is that we can learn from what the others have done before us.”

Mr Dawson also announced that he had approved the introduction of AR-15 long arms to 100 ROG officers.

“We have not had a direct domestic terrorism attack in WA, that’s not to state that we can relax or not have vigilance about this.

As police officers you all know that our uniformed and detective staff are more than likely to be the first responders to any on shore attack in Western Australia,” he said.

In addition to guest speakers and the technology focus, Delegates debated more than 70 motions which can be read on page 22.

01 Commissioner of Police Chris Dawson addresses Annual Conference for the first time in his new role. 02 Commissioner of Police Chris Dawson, President George Tilbury and Police Minister Michelle Roberts. 03 Delegates vote on motions. 04 Delegates of the 81st Annual Conference. 05 Several Delegates were in full Movember bloom at Annual Conference.

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Automated network to help police catch crooks

ANNUAL CONFERENCE

BY STEVEN GLOVER

Technology Speakers WAPU’s technology-themed Annual Conference saw Delegates vote in favour of a motion to create a network of fixed Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras to assist with proactive policing.

The WA Police Force has been using PoliScan since early 2013. The laser based speed camera system can monitor up to six lanes of traffic simultaneously.

The UK currently has an ANPR network comprising some 8,500 fixed and mobile cameras. It is estimated the network conducts between 25 and 35 million ANPR ‘reads’ per day, which are recorded in the National ANPR Data Centre.

The Centre allows UK Police to undertake sophisticated searches and data mining. Car registrations can be checked against lists from the Police National Computer.

Research indicates that proactive use of ANPR has the potential to be a highly effective tool in reducing WA’s crime rate.

WAPU President George Tilbury said all criminals use our roadways, so placing fixed automatic number plate recognition cameras in strategic locations would greatly increase the capabilities of the WA Police Force.

“By implementing a ‘virtual fishing net’, our Members will be able catch criminals who trigger an alert when the number plate of the known vehicle is automatically recognised,” he said.

“Air Wing could be structured to respond to urgent alerts, such as stolen motor vehicles, within minutes. This already occurs successfully in other countries.

“We anticipate this technology would increase the sanction rate and reduce WA’s crime rate.”

Mr Tilbury said the network was a golden opportunity for the Government to invest in cameras that are crime fighting tools, rather than those that just raise revenue.

“I implore the Minister of Police to strongly consider our proposal and work with us and the WA Police Force to better protect West Australians.”

MAHMOOD HUSSEIN, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, GLOBAL DRONE SOLUTIONS Mr Hussein was the first speaker to address Annual Conference on the technology theme.

He is the Chief Executive Officer of a CASA approved drone pilot training organisation and a seasoned senior executive, strategist and CASA certified drone pilot.

Mr Hussein told Annual Conference how drones can be used in policing for crime scene investigation, criminal surveillance, response coordination, security surveillance, training and evaluation.

ARTHUR BAKER, TECHNICAL SPECIALIST, SEEK SECURITY PRODUCTS Technical Specialist from Seek Security Products Arthur Baker told Conference how thermal imaging technology can assist police officers with their day-to-day duties.

Even the most elusive suspects can’t hide their heat signature. Seek Thermal cameras let you quickly clear a room without putting yourself in harm’s way, find discarded evidence at night, and track suspects without a torch giving your position away.

It is now more affordable than ever to put high-powered, lifesaving, thermal image cameras into the hands of officers involved in surveillance, search and rescue operations, intruder searches, hidden compartment detection, accident investigations, locating evidence and more.

PETER CLOWES, DIRECTOR, MAXART Peter Clowes is Founder and Creative Director at MAXART, one of Brisbane’s leading virtual and augmented reality technology companies. Peter has worked with some of Australia’s, and the world’s, most recognisable brands, and has been invited to share his ideas on immersive technologies at conferences and seminars throughout Australia and overseas.

MAXART aims to share their vision for spatial and collaborative computing with the world. To achieve this, the company is building virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) applications that transform how people interact and engage with the next generation of computing devices.

Mr Clowes told Conference how these applications could assist policing by mapping crime scenes and allowing experts in the office to guide junior officers to gather evidence.

Similar technology has already been used in the UK and Denmark.

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81st Annual Conference Dinner 03 04

TUESDAY 24 NOVEMBER PARMELIA HILTON HOTEL 01 WAPU five-year Service Pin recipients Michael Paterson, Ian Moore, David Holmberg and Lindsay Garratt with President George Tilbury. 02 Steve Meakins, Kim Travers, Dave Curtis and Danny Richmond were recipients of the 10-year WAPU Service Pin. 03 Peter Eley, Nigel Jenkins, Grant Treen and Kim Radalj. 04 Keith and Chelsea Armstrong.

05 Maria and Peter McGee, Jen Hill and Emily Woodland.

06 Vanessa and Kevin Morton with Lisa and Mick Buko.

07 Jan and Lindsay Garratt with Mike McRandie. 08 Kylie Proctor, Debra Hutchison, Shereen Jolly, Mick Kelly, Dayna Rigoir and Samantha Strange. 09 Lea Anderson, Meredith Hammat and Stephen Kenner. 10 Ian Moore, Dave Lampard and Paul Gale. 11 Chris Dawson, Simon Beaumont and Michelle Roberts. 12 Leanne Murdoch and Rick Sherlock.

13 Lynda McCutcheon, Gavin Cashion and Angela Smith.

14 Scott Slawinski, Jordan Eden and Stewart Scott.

15 Rosie McKee and Jennie Jannings. 16 Dowd Dempsey 2017 Winner AJ Geary with Steve Meakins and George Tilbury.

17 Scott Sulley, Gary Dreibergs and Dave Groenenberg.

18 Steve Kent, Chris Patten, Mal Currey and Tim Saxon.

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ANNUAL CONFERENCE

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MOTIONS ON NOTICE 81ST ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2017 1.0 CORPORATE 1.1 EXECUTIVE

Conference condemns the State Government for its abhorrent treatment of police officers during WAPU’s Industrial Agreement negotiations and its failure to recognise that police are different to other public sector workers.

Explanation The State Government has treated police officers with contempt after it failed to negotiate in good faith or offer any solutions to the Industrial Agreement impasse, despite WAPU continually providing the Government with potential alternate solutions. WAPU also displayed a great deal of good will during negotiations by suspending industrial action, yet the Government still failed its police officers, the people who put their lives on the line for the community.

PROPOSED 5.7 – Termination of Membership (c) 1. A Member may resign by giving notice of the intention to resign.

The notice of resignation shall be delivered in person or by certified mail to the Registered Office. The resignation takes effect from the day on which it is received by the Union or on such later date specified in the notice.

2. A notice of resignation received by the Union is not invalid because it was not addressed and delivered in accordance with sub-rule (c)1.

Moved: D Curtis Seconded: H Russell CARRIED

1.4 COMMISSIONED OFFICERS BRANCH Moved: B Shortland Seconded: H Russell CARRIED

1.2 EXECUTIVE Conference condemns the State Government for its lack of any real commitment to increase police numbers, putting current Members at risk.

Explanation The State Government has failed to protect the health and welfare of our Members by refusing to commit to recruiting sufficiently more police officers.

Our Members are already at breaking point and the State Government is happy for this to occur by not adequately resourcing the WA Police Force.

Moved: B Shortland Seconded: L Garratt CARRIED

1.3 EXECUTIVE Conference directs that Rule 5.7 of the WAPU Constitution – Termination of Membership – be amended to enable Member resignations to have effect in circumstances where the notice of resignation is not strictly in the form required.

Explanation The current Rule conforms strictly to the requirements of Section 64A of the Industrial Relations Act 1979. The proposed change removes any impediment, or delay, to a Member’s intention to resign being given effect, on a technicality.

CURRENT 5.7 – Termination of Membership (c) A Member may resign by giving notice of the intention to resign. The notice of resignation shall be delivered in person or by certified mail to the Registered Office. The resignation takes effect from the day on which it is received by the Union or on such later date specified in the notice.

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Conference directs the Board of Directors to develop a WAPU prescribed process for any action taken against a Member by the Board pursuant to Disciplinary Matters – Clause 13(d) (e) (f) (g) (h) of the WAPU Constitution, Rules and By-Laws.

Explanation Currently Sub Clause 13(f) outlines that “At the special meeting of the Board to consider the complaint, the Board will take all reasonable steps to inform themselves in regard to all matters relevant to the complaint being made. The Board at the special meeting shall regulate the procedures to be taken, but must ensure that the principles of natural justice apply and that all parties receive a fair hearing”.

This Branch is of the view that regulating of the procedures to be taken to ensure the principles of natural justice applying, and a fair hearing can only be guaranteed with a prescribed process, that is made available to both the complainant and respondent in advance.

Moved: K Travers Seconded: J Donohoe LOST

1.5 COMMISSIONED OFFICERS BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to incorporate a definition for “Conflict of Interest” within the Interpretation Section of the Constitution.

Explanation Currently there is no reference to conflicts of interest within the WAPU Constitution, Rules or By-laws.

From time to time there will be either a real or perceived conflict of interest that arises in respect of members of the Board or Union Staff, including outsourced legal and industrial advisors.

Conflicts of interest (real or perceived) in respect of WAPU business can arise as a result of either personal or WA Police related interests that may impact public confidence, trust, integrity, objectivity or impartiality.

Members of WAPU and Union Staff are entitled to the highest level of standards of ethics, integrity, impartiality and professional conduct in their day to day working environment, and as such this should be clearly articulated within this most important union document.

Moved: K Travers Seconded: D Flaherty LOST

1.6 COMMISSIONED OFFICERS BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to incorporate their WAPU Code of Conduct policy within the Constitution, which clearly articulates and outlines the expected standards of conduct required of the Union Board of Directors and Union staff.

Explanation The Constitution sets out a disciplinary process however it is silent in terms of any expected levels of conduct and standards. These standards are outlined in the WA Police Code of Conduct, however this policy document is not referred to and relates predominantly to WAPU employees, inclusive of a process for breaching of the policy that is only for WAPU employees and not Directors. This Code of Conduct should be underpinned by the existing Disciplinary process outlined within Section 13.

Members of WAPU and Union Staff are entitled to the highest level of standards of ethics, integrity, impartiality and professional conduct in their day to day working environment and as such this should be clearly articulated within this most important union document.

Moved: K Travers Seconded: D Flaherty LOST

1.7 GREAT SOUTHERN BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to amend Rule 8.1(i) of the WAPU Constitution so Branches are provided an Auditor’s Report 14 days prior to Annual Conference.

Explanation At the beginning of each Annual Conference these financial statements are provided to branch delegates who then have to vote on the accuracy of the statements. There is simply insufficient time to interrogate these financial statements in order to query any discrepancies or anomalies.

If provided to the Branches with the conference motions / agenda this would enable such interrogation and enable Members to raise any areas of concern with delegates who can then question the statements prior to being tabled and carried without proper interrogation.

CURRENT 8.1 – Annual Conference (i) At each Annual Conference an Auditor’s Report and an audited balance sheet of the assets and liabilities, a statement of the receipts and expenditure and a statement of the sources and application of funds of the Union are to be presented.

PROPOSED (i) At each Annual Conference an Auditor’s Report and an audited balance sheet of the assets and liabilities, a statement of the receipts and expenditure and a statement of the sources and application of funds of the Union are to be presented. A copy of this is to be provided to each Branch at least 14 days prior to the Annual Conference.

Moved: D Richmond Seconded: G Wishart CARRIED

2.0 INDUSTRIAL

2.1 JOONDALUP BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to introduce a “Frontline Operational Allowance”.

Explanation This allowance would be payable to those officers who are not only operational but who actually go out on a daily basis and face the demands of modern policing head on. The allowance if granted may also attract and retain personnel to areas that are rapidly becoming hard to fill spots.

Moved: S Sulley Seconded: D Richmond CARRIED

2.2 CENTRAL GREAT SOUTHERN BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Government against further increasing GROH rents.

Explanation Whilst this is a Statewide issue, it is of particular concern within hard-tofill towns, such as Katanning, where any rent increase will further deter applicants and reduce staff retention.

Moved: D Groenenberg Seconded: H Arnott CARRIED

2.3 EAST METROPOLITAN BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the State Government to reverse the recent $30 per week increase to Regional WA officers for GROH housing.

Explanation The State Government has refused to back down on the $1,000 pay increase per year to all public service personnel. The increase of $30 per week equates to $1,560 per year which is greater than the pay rise offered. Members will therefore be worse off financially.

Moved: J Mora Seconded: G Wishart CARRIED

2.4 GREAT SOUTHERN BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to base GROH rent on personal circumstances rather than the property itself.

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Explanation It is cheaper to rent a two or three bedroom house through GROH then it is to rent a four bedroom house. Currently houses are designated to officers with little regard for their actual need (i.e. single officer or an officer with a partner and children).

If the single officer is allocated a four bedroom house without requesting it and/ or no consultation, then that officer should pay a reduced rent.

Moved: D Richmond Seconded: D Rigoir CARRIED

2.5 NORTH EASTERN GOLDFIELDS BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to set a standard for relieving officer’s accommodation, known as “VOQs” for officers who are reliving at remote locations such as Multi-Functional Police Facilities, with the minimum standard to be no less than the current accommodation at Blackstone MFPF and Balgo MFPF. Explanation Officers are expected to relieve at remote locations, sometimes for over a month, without the comforts of home in accommodation that is not up to standard. As an example, officers are expected to sometimes share the VOQ at Warburton MFPF when there is more than one officer relieving. That VOQ has two single beds and one double, one toilet/shower which is so cramped that when using the toilet you are jammed up against the washing machine. The VOQ is 1km from the Police Station and is situated in a donga at the rear of the Warburton roadhouse.

Relieving officers can work long, difficult hours where they can be called out at any time. Officers need accommodation that is comfortable to live in and is an area where they can de-stress.

The minimum standard should be the same as the accommodation at Blackstone and Balgo. Two separate rooms with queen size beds including a desk with their own ensuite, a large dining/lounge area and a kitchen area.

Moved: K Armstrong Seconded: D Curtis CARRIED

2.6 COMMISSIONED OFFICERS BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to create a definition for Extraordinary Event within Section 6 (Definitions) of the Industrial Agreement.

Explanation This definition is required in order that changes to the current EBA can progress in respect of compensating Commissioned Officers for ‘inordinate’ hours of duty they have to apply in “extraordinary emergencies”. Events such as bushfire and cyclone command etc.

The definition could be as follows: “Extraordinary Event” shall in respect of Commissioned Officers be deemed to be recognised as a: natural disaster (.i.e. fire, floods, and extreme weather conditions); transport disaster (.i.e. aircraft, shipping rail, or road); biological, nuclear, chemical disaster; serious crime or death; matters of National and State Security; Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) incident; or, missing person incident.

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Moved: K Travers Seconded: J Groves CARRIED

2.7 COMMISSIONED OFFICERS BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to amend Clause 12 – Hours of Duty – by incorporating a sub clause “Extraordinary Events” which recognises that Commissioned Officers and Officers in charge who are required to work more than 40 hours per week, should receive approved overtime as per Clause 14.

Explanation Commissioned Officers at times will be required to assist with “Extraordinary Events” within the meaning of Clause (6) which may require working more than 40 hours in a week. Whilst still needing to meet recognised Occupational Safety and Health requirements it may not be possible or reasonable to adequately self-manage the hours worked in that week and in some limited approved circumstances the Commissioned Officer may be compensated with approved overtime as per clause 14(9).

Moved: K Travers Seconded: J Groves CARRIED

2.8 COMMISSIONED OFFICERS BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to amend Clause 14 (9) – Overtime – to recognise when an “Extraordinary Event” is declared, Commissioned Officers and Officers in Charge who are required to work more than 40 hours per week, receive approved overtime as per Clause 14 (9).

Explanation Commissioned Officers at times will be required to assist with “Extraordinary Events” within the meaning of Clause (6) which may require working more than 40 hours in a week. Whilst still needing to meet recognised Occupational Safety and Health requirements it may not be possible or reasonable to adequately self-manage the hours worked in that week and in some limited approved circumstances the Commissioned Officer may be compensated with approved overtime as per Clause 14.

The change to Clause 14(9) could read as follows: The provisions of this, other than subclause (7), does not apply to Commissioned Officers, except in cases where the Commissioned Officer is required to assist with “Extraordinary Events” within the meaning of clause (6) which may require working more than forty hours in a week, and which cannot reasonably be expected to be self-managed as per Clause (12) Subclause (15). In these limited cases any approval for overtime is required from the Commissioned Officer’s Portfolio Head or from the SCC by a person of the rank of Superintendent or above.

Moved: K Travers Seconded: D Flaherty CARRIED

2.9 COMMISSIONED OFFICERS BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to amend Clause 16 – Shift Penalties – by incorporating a Sub Clause that provides for Commissioned Officers in designated positions to be paid shift penalties without the requirement to appear on a set roster.

Explanation Currently the EBA only provides for shift penalties to be paid to Inspectors working 10 hour shifts within Clause 16(4). Superintendents and Inspectors at the State Control Centre and Police Operations Centre who are working 12 hour shifts are being paid shift penalties and this arrangement needs to be reflected in the EBA.

2.12 SEX CRIMES BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to review the minimum tenure policy for specific sections within WA Police that are identified as “High Stress” or “High Risk” such as Sex Crime Division, Major Crime Division, Major Crash, Traffic Branch and that Members attached to such areas of service be no longer subject to minimum tenure.

The Sub Clause could read as follows: 16. SHIFT ALLOWANCES (5) Superintendents and Inspectors (substantiative or acting in such a role) whilst working from a designated position at the State Control Centre or Police Operations Centre will be paid the applicable shift allowance as prescribed in subclause (1) or (3) of this clause depending on which clause is the more appropriate for the hours worked and time commenced.

Explanation Many positions within the agencies such as Sex Crime Division, Major Crime Division, Major Crash and Traffic Division have the potential for significant emotional and Psychological harm to be caused to Members. This has already been acknowledged by WA Police given that currently a Psychological Assessment is required prior to coming to one of these positions and regular screening continues throughout.

Moved: K Travers Seconded: L Garratt CARRIED

Currently there is the ability for Members to request release from tenure because of the Psychological impact of the things that they are required to do and see whilst performing these roles. But some Members are unwilling or unable to discuss the issues confronting them, let alone putting them in writing for review and discussion of superiors in fear of the stigma that may be attached with such a request.

2.10 SEX CRIMES BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to consider opening the redundancies to all Members irrespective of rank when they are in the offering.

Also, that they should be determined by the years of service (minimum of 20 + years of service), and/or operational competency of the Member. Not as it currently appears as an incentive to Commissioned Officers only.

Explanation If redundancies are on offer as part of the government public service cut backs. Concerns exist that redundancies opportunities will only be offered to Commissioned Officers. This Branch would like all Members regardless of rank to be offered that opportunity. In the interest in fairness.

Moved: B Mansas Seconded: P Potthoff CARRIED

2.11 SEX CRIMES BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to review the minimum and maximum tenure policy to make it more flexible and fair. That Members work performance, knowledge and experience be a consideration when requesting extensions of tenure. That work performance (Key Performance Indicators) not on time spent at a location. Performance versus Time be the deciding factor.

Explanation If staff are performing at the required level and the OIC of the work area is willing to recommend extensions of tenure, then this should be granted in all circumstances where it is operationally viable.

There seems to be instances where certain Members are able to remain in positions for much longer than other Members. That when Members are required or made to apply for positions (management initiated) that the Member should receive preferential treatment when applying for vacant positions within the Agency.

Moved: B Mansas Seconded: B Shortland CARRIED

If a Member identifies at an early stage that the emotional and Psychological impacts the position is having is beginning to take its toll, then WA Police has an obligation under OHS to support that Member in whatever way it can. We also argue it is in the best long term interests of the Agency and the Member to take preventative action prior to it manifesting in significant Psychological trauma.

Moved: B Mansas Seconded: K McDonald CARRIED

2.13 SERIOUS & ORGANISED CRIME BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to review the organisational benefits of maximum tenure in the State Crime Portfolio, with a view to completely removing maximum tenure from all specialist crime squads.

Explanation Specialist knowledge is constantly drained from within the State Crime Portfolio due to staff being forced to leave upon reaching maximum tenure (four years). It is toward the end of this compulsory tenure period that detectives working in crime squads have built significant specialist knowledge relating to the investigations conducted. They have to move and often transfer to areas that have no or little relationship with that specialist knowledge.

Meanwhile the continual loss of experienced staff adversely impacts the ability of specialist squads to maintain a high standard of service delivery and impacts on the development of probationary, junior, i5 and i6 detectives.

It also negatively impacts on the morale of officers wanting to remain and build on their expertise and also their colleagues who want them to remain.

With officers knowing they have to leave before maximum tenure, there is no way to adequately rotate staff to ensure squad experience/expertise is maintained. Movement through promotion also adds to the difficulty of maintaining expertise.

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There is so much attrition within the squads that expertise and experience cannot be maintained to sufficient levels.

The natural attrition rate means that officers desirous of working at a particular squad will have an opportunity to do so even if maximum tenure is abolished.

Other police jurisdictions around Australia have recognised the deficiencies of maximum tenure and largely dispensed with it.

Moved: J Jannings Seconded: B Mansas CARRIED

2.14 LEEUWIN NATURALISTE BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to review the tenure policy currently in existence.

Explanation This review of maximum tenure should be directed at Regional WA stations where a maximum tenure exists. The Branch recommends that there is no change to minimum tenure but maximum tenure to be extended to seven years.

This will have numerous benefits including, but not limited to: A boost in morale (relocating less often, children able to complete more schooling prior to moving, partners able to get more secure employment, start to feel like part of the community etc.); huge financial savings in relocation costs; gain the public trust and in turn cooperation/assistance and increase local knowledge.

staff selection, that any decision is able to be reviewed at the request of the OIC and that officers applying for positions be given written feedback and not generic feedback as why they were unsuitable for positions applied for.

Explanation OICs interview and rate potential applicants for their business areas, select a person and PODU override that decision and no review or feedback is given to the OIC or to the subject officer as to why.

Moved: B Mansas Seconded: D Richmond CARRIED

2.17 EAST METROPOLITAN BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to make changes to the promotional process in order to place greater recognition to the practical component and allow greater significance on a district office report compiled as part of an officer’s promotion application.

Explanation Currently the overall evaluation from the panel attributes 10 per cent to DO reports, 30 per cent to officer’s written application, 30 per cent to officer’s panel interview, and 30 per cent to sergeant’s exam/assessment. Greater emphasis is sought from DO reports and from a practical component (i.e. field or front line experience).

Moved: J Mora Seconded: G Wishart CARRIED

2.18 STATE INTELLIGENCE BRANCH Moved: T Saxon Seconded: S Sulley CARRIED

2.15 MIRRABOOKA BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to return to the previous status quo for officers who complete their probationary period.

Conference directs the Board of Directors to continue to lobby for changes to the Industrial Agreement in respect to TOIL. TOIL should be calculated at the same rates as overtime, not simply one hour TOIL claimed for one hour overtime worked.

Explanation Currently all TOIL is calculated at one hour given for one hour worked regardless of the total extra hours worked in a week.

Explanation The previous system allowed officers completing their probation to be posted to a station and in the first 12 months they could apply to transfer to another district. The current practice to transfer officers to a station where they cannot apply for transfer (unless to a specialist or country position) for two years.

Overtime is calculated at 1.5 hours (time and a half) paid per hour for the first three hours worked in a week then double time for each hour worked after that. Staff taking TOIL are disadvantaged over those taking overtime.

Officers are being transferred to stations a considerable distance from where they are residing. Ten hour shifts combined with 90 minutes travel each way, means the officers are working a 13-hour day. If they have additional overtime, fatigue becomes an issue.

With electronic record keeping (SIMR) in place, TOIL is simple to record and manage. If TOIL was calculated at overtime rates, a considerable number of employees would access TOIL in lieu of overtime, due to the flexibility TOIL allows.

Moved: S Meakins Seconded: H Arnott CARRIED

Moved: B Falconer Seconded: P Potthoff CARRIED

2.16 SEX CRIMES BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to review the selection process and to make it more accountable and transparent in that a police officer oversees the final decision of sworn 26 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

2.19 STATE INTELLIGENCE BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to provide secure parking for staff required to work hours when no public transport is available for their travel to or from work.

Explanation Staff are required to work shifts, commencing at various WA Police locations where no parking is provided.

Agreement 2016 does not pay a specialist allowance as such, but pursuant to section 13 Classification Structure, fast-tracks police officers within Prosecuting Division to the rank of sergeant.

Staff required to commence or cease duty when no public transport is available should be provided secure parking at or near their workplace.

Moved: P Lynch Seconded: D Flaherty LOST

While the cost of providing parking as well as various FBT implications are understood to be some of the issues surrounding the lack of parking provided by WA Police, the safety of staff and their vehicles is paramount and if WA Police cannot provide parking at the workplace, they can seek alternative arrangements for staff at nearby premises where parking is available and not used during times when no public transport is available.

WA Police could simply liaise with various businesses in the vicinity of workplaces without parking to negotiate parking for employees.

Moved: B Falconer Seconded: S Sulley CARRIED

2.20 WEST KIMBERLEY BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to afford officers in charge of Regional WA detectives offices the same conditions and entitlements as their police station counterparts and give them access to GROH housing on a ‘free rent’ basis. Further that relieving Regional WA detective OICs be entitled to the same entitlements as relieving police station OICs, namely payment of the OIC allowance for their relief period and other associated entitlements as if they were the substantive OIC. Explanation The same expectations, intermittent duties, after business hours commitments and 24/7 availability are placed upon Regional WA detective OICs but the conditions and entitlements fall short. Relieving Regional WA detective OICs are expected to maintain the business continuity and OIC expectations of that office without the recognition of being an OIC for that relief period.

Moved: N Vanderplank Seconded: M Fogarty CARRIED

2.21 PROSECUTING BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to provide a specialist Prosecutor Allowance.

Explanation Prosecutors in general undertake further tertiary qualifications in personal time which is not renumerated either financially or through provision of study leave (due to officers undertaking study via external study streams) to assist in the provision and delivery of a more professional service both to WA Police and the courts.

Other state police jurisdictions recognise and acknowledge the professional service delivered by prosecutors and as such renumerate police prosecutors by providing a specialist allowance – pursuant to the NSW (Crown Employees) Police Officer Award 2014 section 45 and table 8; and South Australia Police Enterprise Agreement 2016 section 22. Queensland Police Service Certified

2.22 PROSECUTING BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to increase bereavement leave to three (3) days pursuant to Clause 31(1) Western Australia Police Industrial Agreement 2014.

Explanation When an immediate family member dies there are substantial duties to be undertaken by family members including funeral arrangements and attendance at the funeral. Coupled with this is the emotional distress and grieving that the Member experiences, whereby two days is not sufficiently adequate for arrangements and emotional distress.

Other state police jurisdictions recognise the adequate time required for attendance to funeral arrangements and emotional distress and as such it is reflected in their associated awards – pursuant to NSW (Crown Employees) Police Officer Award 2014 section 29 bereavement leave of 2.5 days per year for officers with two years of less service and five days per year thereafter for officers. The Victoria Police Enterprise Agreement 2011 section 103 provides three (3) days bereavement leave with option to apply for further additional leave, if required.

Moved: P Lynch Seconded: W Dowbysch CARRIED

2.23 ACADEMY BRANCH The Academy Branch directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to review the leave entitlement for Bereavement Leave, changing the allowable leave period from two to five days. This leave should not include the paid time off allowed for travel.

Explanation Many officers are relied upon by their family to administrate all or part of the affairs of a departed family member, whether it be a parent, child or sibling.

These duties may include organising funerals, or ensuring the welfare and financial stability of a partner left behind.

These duties can often take longer than the allotted leave period of two days to process to a viable state where the officer can leave the immediate family and return to work. A Bereavement Leave period of five days will give the officer more time to make these arrangements.

Moved: S Williams Seconded: D Rigoir CARRIED

2.24 INTELLIGENCE SERVICES BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to agree to a modification of the current Travel Allowance relating to Missed Meals. The current allowance of $6.35 to be changed to the equivalent dollar value of the relevant missed meal allowance.

27 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

Explanation SID operatives are regularly required to travel for operational reasons.

to make a claim even when their medical and sick leave entitlements exceed $75,000.

During these deployments it is a common occurrence that they are unable to either stop or take a meal break. They seek an adjustment to the current Missed Meal allowance in order compensate for the missed meal, to the value of the allowance of the relevant missed meal.

Explanation A recent District Court of Appeal decision of Cooper v Smith [2017) WADC 82 (Cooper} has had a significant effect on the ability for police officers to seeking compensation for loss and/or injury, suffered on or off duty, under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Act 2003 (WA}(CIC Act}.

Moved: J Mirigiannis Seconded: D Flaherty CARRIED

3.0 LEGAL

3.1 EXECUTIVE Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the State Government to change the Criminal Injuries Compensation Act 2003 to allow police officers to be covered while working interstate.

Explanation The purpose of this motion is two-fold and the two injustices have been brought to WAPU's attention in the past six months.

On 10 February 2015 the Officer was involved in making an arrest in the Kintore Community within the NT. During the arrest he was bitten by the offender. As is common in these instances, the physical bite wound was relatively minor but he underwent a period of emotional stress and anxiety whilst waiting to ascertain if he had contracted a communicable disease Our Member's claim had been rejected on the basis that the incident occurred outside of the Western Australia jurisdiction. The Act does not currently provide any express provision that for extra-territorial application and further, there is no indication that Parliament's intent was for it to have extra-territorial application. The NT Victims of Crime was also contacted at this time to ascertain if our Member could apply for compensation under the Victims of Crime Assistance Act (NT). The NT based Chief Assessor confirmed that generally if a person can make a claim for compensation under workers compensation in the NT there is no other legislative mechanism to receive compensation.

Police Officers in the NT have a workers compensation scheme and their right to claim under victims of crime legislation was revoked a number of years ago as it was believed the workers compensation legislation provided sufficient protections, therefore no claim is currently available for our Member through NT based legislation.

This scenario opens a debate on the wider issue of WA Police completing cross border operations in other States and Territories. As Police in States and Territories other than Western Australia are covered by different legislative schemes designed around workers compensation principles there may be no compensation claimable under the local legislative arrangements as is available to WA Police under the CIC Act. Moved: H Russell Seconded: B Shortland CARRIED

3.2 EXECUTIVE Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the State Government to change the Criminal Injuries Compensation Act 2003 to allow police officers 28 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

In this decision, the Judge held that medical and leave payments of a police officer were considered to have been received by the appellant officer by way of 'compensation' for 'loss' within the meaning of section 42(3) of the Act. Consequently, the Judge held that the total of these payments must be deducted from any compensation award that may be payable to the appellant under section 30 of the Act. Further, he held that, given the total amount of the medical and leave payment was well in excess of the statutory maximum compensation award that could be paid to the appellant ($75,000}, the result was that no compensation was therefore payable to the injured Police Officer under the Act. Police Officers do not have workers compensation. A Criminal Injuries Compensation claim is usually the only real opportunity they have to seek redress for the pain and suffering they have endured as a victim of crime. The nature of their duties makes them more liable to be victims of assaults and other heinous crimes in the course of their duties than any other occupation in this State. Considering that orders can be (and often are) made by the Office of Criminal Injuries Compensation for recovery from offenders, the Cooper decision will make offenders who assault Police Officers generally less liable to make amends. Perversely, an offender will be less likely to have any order made against them for recovery if they inflict more damage on their victim Police Officer. That is an outrageous and scandalous situation.

Moved: D Curtis Seconded: M Gill CARRIED

3.3 EXECUTIVE Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the State Government to amend Section 137 of the Police Act 1892 to protect police officers from civil prosecution as is the case in Queensland legislation.

Explanation The drafting of Section 137 of the Act currently leaves individual Police Officers open to being held personally liable for acts or omissions made in the execution of their duties as a member of the Police Force. Section 137 provides that an individual Police Officer can be held personally liable for a tort if the Plaintiff can prove on a balance of probabilities, that the Police Officer performed or purported to perform the functions of a member of the Police Force, and did so with corruption or malice. This Section was amended in 1999 to provide 'clear and unequivocal protection to members of the Police Service against civil action'. However, Section 137 into the Act did not prevent the individual Police Officers from being sued and being held personally liable in the recent decision of Cunningham.

Having carefully surveyed the respective provisions that exist around Australia, we have come to the conclusion Queensland is operating by far the preferred model. Pursuant to Section 10.5 of the Police Service

Administration Act 1990 (QLD), plaintiffs can only sue the State for alleged tortious activity by Police Officers and other Police public servants acting in an official capacity, not the individual person. This approach has several benefits including certainty to plaintiffs as to whom to name as defendants to civil suits, and avoiding the need for individual Police Officers to be named as defendants when personal liability is never realistically at stake. The State is then afforded the opportunity to recover a contribution from the individual Officer, if the Officer acted other than in good faith and with gross negligence.

In that way, the right of recovery of the State from an individual Police Officer in an appropriate case is preserved.

Computer (PNC), including vehicles of interest to the police for crimes such as burglary or theft of petrol. The NADC can also be used for proactive investigations to: • Research the movements of a vehicle which may belong to or be used by a suspect; • Locate a vehicle in support of a surveillance operation; • Initiate a trigger plan or an arrest plan (arrest/stop/notify); • Reduce public disorder; and • Develop intelligence about the activities and lifestyle of a subject prior to an operation.

Moved: L Garratt Seconded: H Russell CARRIED

Research indicates that proactive use of ANPR has the potential to be a highly effective tool in reducing WA’s crime rate.

3.4 ACADEMY BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police and Government to seek removal of Regulation 505A Police Force Regulations 1979 to allow probationary constables to have the same protections afforded other Members through the removal process as per Section 8 Police Act 1892.

Moved: H Russell Seconded: B Shortland CARRIED

4.2 EXECUTIVE

Explanation Probationary constables are subject to an abbreviated removal process under Regulation 505A. Whilst it is acknowledged that the Commissioner may at times require the prompt removal of a probationary officer, it is suggested that the section 8 process is adequate.

Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Minister for Police to immediately address the staff shortages in existence at a number of remotely located police stations in regional WA that currently operate 24 x 7 lockups. Carnarvon, Kununurra and Newman, together with Derby and Fitzroy Crossing are unable to provide proper custodial care duties to detainees and our Members are being directed to perform these and other duties whilst working alone.

Furthermore, treating one class of officer differently to another class of officer is inconsistent with the principles of natural justice and is fundamentally unfair. This unfairness is compounded by the imbalance of power between probationary constables and supervisors.

Explanation Additional staff must be allocated to these areas as there is no other control measure that can eliminate or reduce the associated risk that single officer custodial care duties create.

Fairness is required by the Code of Conduct, therefore any decision that is made that is unfair, is inconsistent with the Code of Conduct.

Moved: M Gill Seconded: H Arnott CARRIED

Moved: S Williams Seconded: D Flaherty CARRIED

4.0 OPERATIONAL

4.1 EXECUTIVE

Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the State Government to invest and develop a network of fixed Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras to assist with proactive policing in the metropolitan area.

Explanation WA Police has been using PoliScan since early 2013. The laser based speed camera system can monitor up to six lanes of traffic simultaneously. By October 2014, at least 48 WA Police vehicles were equipped with ANPR systems.

The UK currently has an ANPR network comprising some 8,500 fixed and mobile cameras across the nation. It is estimated the network conducts between 25 to 35 million ANPR ‘reads’ per day that are recorded in the National ANPR Data Centre (NADC). ANPR data is stored with related data for a period of two years.

The NADC allows UK Police to undertake sophisticated searches and data mining. Car registrations can be checked against lists from the Police National

4.3 EXECUTIVE Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to arrange suitable managerial Occupational Safety and Health training to all district and divisional business managers that do not have qualifications in the OSH area.

Explanation Each district and division is now allocated with an unsworn business manager.

The business managers in the metropolitan area is required to represent the work areas OSH outcomes and shortfalls at the Occupational Advisory Committee. Unless qualified or trained in OSH management practices, they are not able to properly fulfil this role, leaving the work area with no appropriate contribution.

Moved: B Shortland Seconded: M Paterson CARRIED

4.4 EXECUTIVE Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to delay any rollout of a replacement uniform until a final decision is made on the choice of Tactical Body Armour and Load Bearing Equipment Vests TBA/LBEV for members.

29 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

Explanation It is vital that any new replacement uniform compliments the TBA/LBEV in regards to permeable qualities, anti-piling and durability.

Moved: H Russell Seconded: G Wishart CARRIED

4.5 EXECUTIVE Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police provide the new Tactical Body Armour Load Bearing Equipment Vests TBA/LBEV to members as a personal uniform issue and allow them to be taken home, where attention to proper cleaning and hygiene and storage can be made.

Explanation The current facilities at police stations will not be able to cater for the proper cleaning, maintenance and storage of the TBA/LBEV that will need to be laid flat when not in use to ensure the life and effectiveness of the soft panel armour plates.

Moved: H Russell Seconded: W Adamson CARRIED

4.6 EXECUTIVE Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to ensure that rosters are correctly identified as a Standard, Extended Settlement Period or Flexible Roster.

Explanation Currently a number of Metropolitan Local Police Teams OIC’s are marking the rosters as ESP c12(5) when they are actually Standard Rosters c12(4).

This is creating confusion with members who are asking why the affected members representing the branch are not being consulted prior to the introduction of the roster Moved: W Adamson Seconded: H Russell CARRIED

4.7 EXECUTIVE Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to ensure that all police facilities, which have a front counter for members of the public to access, are provided with overlapping front counter glass barriers.

Explanation Although originally identified and budgeted for has a priority requirement in the 2002/03 Tungsten Survey there are still numerous police facilities, for example Cannington that still have either no or glass barriers with no overlapping provisions. This places our members and unsworn staff at risk of assault.

Moved: D Curtis Seconded: M Gill CARRIED

4.8 EXECUTIVE Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to implement a new uniform which is fit for purpose for policing across the State. As part of the process, consultation with WAPU and frontline police officers must occur.

Explanation The Commissioner of Police recently rejected parts of the new WA Police Force uniform, specifically a polo shirt and under garment for operational frontline police officers.

Police officers in WA experience a broad range of climatic conditions and the current blue button up shirt is no longer suitable for frontline policing activities.

A new shirt is required which is suitable for the WA climate and can be worn under the new anticipated personal issue body armour.

Moved: H Russell Seconded: P McGee CARRIED

4.9 AVON BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Government to fund the Mobility Project as a matter of priority.

Explanation Frontline staff are under ever increasing pressure to meet demand, an avenue to enable this is the ability to input and access data from the field. There are numerous jurisdictions around the world that already have this capability.

WA Police have had a mobility project underway for what seems like years yet nothing eventuates.

Moved: D Flaherty Seconded: J Groves CARRIED

4.10 NORTH EASTERN GOLDFIELDS BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to implement personal issue electronic devices to replace or complement TADIS in vehicles.

Explanation Police are often required to perform name searches when away from the vehicle. It would increase officer safety if police didn’t have to return to the vehicle or use a mobile phone to perform checks. A tablet with access to IMS would enable officers to stay together. In most regional areas, not all police vehicles are equipped with TADIS. Having tablets would enable officers to utilise all vehicles available. It would also be a cost effective option to installing TADIS in all vehicles.

Moved: K Armstrong Seconded: M Johnson CARRIED

4.11 AVON BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police and Government to address communication black spots around the State.

30 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

Explanation Needs little explanation. It is understood that the most remote parts of the State are problematic however, there are numerous locations within 100 kms or Perth that remain communication black spots.

Moved: D Flaherty Seconded: D Rigoir CARRIED

to purchase and, provide the ongoing support, for all operational officers to be issued with either a smartphone or electronic tablet as a replacement for the TADIS Lite that has been removed from service.

Explanation Self-explanatory.

WITHDRAWN

4.12 STATE TRAFFIC OPERATIONS BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to reinstate the Mobile HQ application by funding the repair of and continued support to ensure its ongoing availability, to enhance the safety and welfare of Members.

4.15 JOONDALUP BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to explore the viability of WA Police transitioning to the use of the NICHE RMS computer system.

Explanation The Mobile HQ application was introduced a couple of years ago on a trial basis.

Mobile HQ is an internet based software application designed to be used on a smartphone or tablet for the purpose of accessing basic IMS information relative to a person, vehicle or address details.

Explanation For many years now, WA Police having been utilising a number of computer systems that often do not talk to each other and often create a great deal of duplicity, and whilst there have been improvements recently to a number of those systems they have not gone far enough.

It was designed with a purpose to replace the ageing and unreliable TADIS Lite device. A number of LPT units and specialist units such as traffic enforcement group motorcycle patrols were provided access to the trial. In State Traffic, mobile phones were purchased along with phones provided by Business Solutions and motorcycle officers were provided access.

In modern day policing we are constantly under pressure to work more effectively and efficiently and NICHE RMS would provide us with the IT base to do just that. This system is a one stop shop that manages crime, general incidents, property, custody, intelligence, court case preparation and more. This is a bolt on system so not all elements have to be selected/ purchased at once giving the agency the opportunity to phase it in reducing the financial impact.

As Mobile HQ was the preferred product for its purpose, all TADIS Lite units issued to the TEG units were, required to be returned to Radio and Electronic Services Unit for disposal.

The trial was completed early in 2017 and officers with access were able to continue use of the application. Results and feedback from the trial were positive. The application broke down in 2017 and was not repaired due to no funding provided to repair it.

As a result officers without access to TADIS have no ability to check a person or vehicle’s details without the services of VKI. This is time consuming and presents a safety and welfare risk to its Members.

There are a growing number of users here in Australia with Queensland and South Australia already utilising it. Worldwide users include the LAPD, US Department of the Interior, Alaskan State Troopers and many more.

Moved: S Sulley Seconded: T Saxon CARRIED

4.16 MANDURAH BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to adequately resource and upgrade all TADIS computers in police vehicles within the next six months.

WITHDRAWN

4.13 EAST METROPOLITAN BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the State Government to provide financial support to the roll-out of software applications (to replace TADIS Lite) to be installed on all Agency mobile phones/tablet devices issued to WA police officers.

Explanation With ageing TADIS and the slow and unreliability of TADIS Lite “Mobile HQ” app has been found to be a fast and effective tool for officers in the field with quick access to crucial information thus enhancing officer safety.

Moved: J Mora Seconded: B Shortland CARRIED

4.14 STATE TRAFFIC OPERATIONS BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police

Explanation The current TADIS system is slow and frequently freezes and is full of faults.

This creates a serious safety issue when police are attempting to search the names of a person or vehicle that has been stopped.

Sometimes you need to wait more than three minutes for a search result to come through. In three minutes police can be attacked, stabbed, fired upon, etc. If officers cannot see the alerts attached to people such as “may hide knives” or “violent when intoxicated” then they may not react in enough time if the person suddenly becomes aggressive.

The lack of consistency with the system is a constant problem with vehicles being unable to be used as the system freezes preventing frontline capabilities.

If you cannot utilise the search function on the way to a priority incident to search the address and persons involved you are missing one of the main aspects of the STOM – Information and Intelligence.

31 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

Police are walking into the unknown due to insufficient equipment capabilities and this is dangerous and unacceptable.

Moved: S Jolly Seconded: J Groves CARRIED

4.17 NORTHERN ROG BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to commit to providing better mobile device and mapping systems along with priority service support.

Explanation The existing TADIS system is slow, provides limited access to gather or add information and the GPS mapping system is sub-standard. When problems are raised with the service desk the grades of service are lacking.

Given the current technology available and expanding access to 4G coverage there should be faster, more reliable, user friendly systems and applications to perform the duties required whilst on the road.

Frontline Officers should be able to enter information in real time with the ability to record incident reports, move on notices, Police Orders, field reports, custody events, add and remove alerts etc. without having to return to the office to complete them.

Moved: C Marzo Seconded: M Johnson CARRIED

4.18 MANDURAH BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to ensure all police stations are fitted out with adequate security features.

Explanation By adequate security features, we mean as a minimum, security cameras which cover the entire police station grounds front and rear, well maintained and bright lighting in all secure and non-secure car parks and bollards protecting all glass fronts.

Currently at Mandurah Police Station there are two poor quality cameras covering the rear of the complex car park and no security camera coverage of the front of the police station.

As most police officers have to park their cars at the front of the station due to insufficient parking bays at the rear, officers’ personal cars and their safety upon walking to them in the dark are compromised.

It is obvious in the hours of darkness that the cars out the front of a station are officers’ cars. There is no lighting in the car park making it dark, there are large shrubs and trees where offenders can linger and hide and no security footage to protect officers and their vehicles.

In this modern era lights and security cameras are a basic necessity. Stations need to be adequately fitted out within six months to protect officers.

Moved: S Jolly Seconded: H Russell CARRIED 32 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

4.19 CENTRAL GREAT SOUTHERN BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Government to review and upgrade security at all police stations.

Explanation In light of the long standing terrorism threat levels, station security has not been improved. Older stations in particular, are lacking in swipe card access ability, mechanised gates, external CCTV recording ability and a variety of other security concerns.

Moved: D Groenenberg Seconded: M Johnson CARRIED

4.20 MANDURAH BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to fund and supply within 12 months, portable devices with full IMS and word attachment capabilities for all officers.

Explanation Currently the TADIS system has limited search functions and prevents officers from being able to search phone numbers, previous incident reports or complete any online forms. There is no ability to complete infringements, statements, incident reports or any form of electronic paperwork on the road.

This means officers are spending time taking handwritten statements at scene, driving back to their stations to type them up and complete the relevant incident report. Due to the size of the districts the travel time from incident locations to the station can be over 20 minutes.

With a portable capability an incident report could be more than half finished by the time officers return to the station reducing office time and getting officers back on the frontline faster to provide a more thorough response.

Queensland Police have utilised portable devices for a long time without incident and will have no doubt drastically reduced their administration time. In a time where GOS is reported on daily why a simple resolution such as a tablet with IMS capabilities is not being utilised to prevent extended office time and travel time back to stations appears to be a massive oversight.

Moved: S Jolly Seconded: G Wishart CARRIED

4.21 SEX CRIMES BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to change the policy on the usage of mobile phones by members, cover the cost of repair or replacement of personal mobile phones, if damaged in the performance of an officer’s duties.

Explanation Currently the WA Police acknowledge and accept the usage of private mobile phones by members and it appears that it is a current policing requirement in that members are requested to provide details of their mobile phone numbers for, “Outlook”, when logging onto CAD, OIC’s require members private phone numbers to be called out if and when required (Not on Call or Standby) as such the policy requires updating.

The main issue is that should a member’s phone be damaged or destroyed there in no duty by the Department to cover the cost of repairs or replacement of the item. Criminal compensation does not necessarily cover damage to personal items so the member is out of pocket.

Moved: B Mansas Seconded: J Jannings CARRIED

4.22 STATE TRAFFIC OPERATIONS BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to provide monetary reimbursement to cover the cost of damage or loss of an officer’s personal equipment when used in conjunction of the course of their duty.

Explanation All too often officers are required to utilise their personal mobile phone in conducting their duty. Sometimes, officers get their phones broken during an arrest. Officers’ watches and sunglasses or prescription glasses fit into the same category.

As with police issue equipment being covered by risk cover and then the police seeking compensation from a charged person if involved, risk cover should also cover officers’ personal equipment before compensation is sought from a charged person.

Moved: P Gale Seconded: J Mora CARRIED

4.23 STATE TRAFFIC OPERATIONS BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to fund and resource changes to the ANPR/CAD system as fitted to the Advanced Traffic Management Vehicle issued to TEG units to enhance the user friendliness specific to information gleaned and the transition between software platforms.

Explanation The TADIS/ANPR system fitted to TEG vehicles is cumbersome and not user friendly. The information gleaned from the Auto Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system is not able to produce immediate important results without switching to a number of other panels to gain the information.

Further the ANPR should be fine-tuned to recognise more specific offences.

The time it takes for this information to be provided is sometimes a risk to officers; firstly – the delay in the knowledge of the vehicle or person of interest being dealt with, secondly – the time awaiting this information then requires the officers to drive at higher speeds for extended time in the conduct of the vehicle intercept.

Moved: P Gale Seconded: J Mora CARRIED

4.24 STATE TRAFFIC OPERATIONS BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to fund and resource the issue of body worn video to operational officers and vehicle mounted video to operational vehicles.

Explanation Successful trials of both have been conducted by WA Police in the past however neither have been implemented. Traffic enforcement group motorcycle officers have been utilising helmet mounted video cameras for over three years since the Commissioner of Police provided verbal approval for them to be funded and implemented by the units.

Over time, helmet mounted video cameras have been of great benefit to the Agency. It has decreased the time and frequency an officer has been required to provide evidence in court. It has decreased the frequency of public complaints against officers over their conduct and therefore reduced time spent in investigating those complaints.

Most importantly, it has enhanced officer safety when dealing with Members of the public due to the public’s awareness that their actions are being recorded.

Moved: P Gale Seconded: S Kent CARRIED

4.25 TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT GROUP NORTH BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to issue all motorcycle riders with a portable electronic device allowing riders to search persons, vehicles and access TADIS to access CAD Jobs.

Explanation Currently, motorcycle riders have no access to police electronic systems on the side of the road. Riders presently are unable to see photographs, personal particulars or vehicles which increases workload due to false names time on side of road.

OSH is compromised as riders have a large wait time between stopping vehicle and accessing information on TTS (1030) Channel to be made aware of safety or licence issues.

Moved: S Jaworski Seconded: B Shortland CARRIED

4.26 TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT GROUP NORTH BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to conduct a review and report to WAPU on a suitable portable handset which is fit for our current policing requirements.

Explanation The hand held radios are not fit for purpose for modern day policing.

The weight and size is excessive particularly with the likelihood of future wearing of ballistic vests. The battery life is unpredictable and at times fails within a few hours of being fully charged.

Reception is poor with transmission problems. Modern police radios are versatile with digital point-to-point facilities coupled with mobile telephony and are lightweight.

Moved: S Jaworski Seconded: S Sulley CARRIED 33 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

4.27 NORTHERN ROG BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to commit to replacing current radio handsets.

Explanation The current radio handsets are too large, heavy, and unreliable often having to be repaired. Issues include poor signal, knobs constantly breaking off and poor connection between the battery and handset making transmissions intermittent or rendering the handset unusable.

Given all of the equipment police officers currently have to wear, it is recommended that WA Police look at smaller lightweight and durable radio handsets with GPS and direct transmission capabilities improving the health and safety of frontline officers.

Moved: C Marzo Seconded: M Johnson CARRIED

4.28 NORTHERN ROG BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to commit to a desktop computer and camera refresh.

Explanation The current desktop computers and cameras have become outdated, cumbersome and slow to operate impeding productivity and frustrating frontline officers. The computers are often slow with applications freezing at times, cameras provide poor quality images and video files can take an extremely long time to upload and copy, if at all. Officers are having to resort to using their own equipment to get the job done.

Moved: C Marzo Seconded: M Johnson CARRIED

testing procedure which is utilised by BAD and Regional WA is outdated, time and resource consuming, has high failure rates (inconclusive results) and is not available to metropolitan traffic who stop the most vehicles with drug affected drivers.

Moved: S Jaworski Seconded: S Kent CARRIED

4.31 TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT GROUP NORTH BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to initiate an on road speed performance review of the Tasking and Data Information System (TADIS) and compare it with on road speeds of TADIS equivalent hardware and software of other policing jurisdictions Australia wide.

Explanation In the age where someone can stream a high definition film or TV show on their personal mobile phone. The service delivery of the TADIS in car system is woefully slow and inadequate to policing needs today and seriously needs to be updated as it is crippling the effectiveness and productivity of policing.

An independent audit on the performance of TADIS needs to be undertaken in order to establish how to improve upon or replace the current system.

Moved: S Jaworski Seconded: D Flaherty CARRIED

4.32 TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT GROUP NORTH BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to issue all police officers with a personal issued portable device that is capable of operating Frontline IMS, Prosecution and Outlook and able to access other government body websites such as Department of Transport (Nationwide).

4.29 TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT GROUP NORTH BRANCH

Explanation Current office computers are outdated (seven to eight year old technology) and are low end desktops – Intel I3 processors. This greatly affects the time needed to complete basic actions such as opening multiple applications.

Explanation Technology has come to a point that you don’t need to be office bound to complete paperwork. Given that most departments are web based forms or lookups we have to use our own personal equipment to complete a task that WA Police should be providing all officers. Example of this issue is the agency has smart phones allocated to each vehicle but haven’t supplied data for those phones which stops staff verifying information out in the field in real time.

It is requested computer hardware be replaced every five years WA Police wide to maintain efficient productivity across the work force.

Moved: S Jaworski Seconded: S Kent CARRIED

Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to replace office police computers every four years with mid to high end range office PCs.

Moved: S Jaworski Seconded: S Kent CARRIED

4.30 TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT GROUP NORTH BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to implement up to date technology to allow efficient and effective drug testing by all traffic officers on patrol.

Explanation TEG 1 and TEG 3 currently have no drug testing ability. The existing drug 34 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

4.33 TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT GROUP NORTH BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to initiate an overhaul and improve the present computer accesses when officers are transferred into new work locations.

Explanation To date many officers are faced with ongoing delays when trying to gain accesses to their new work locations computer drives. Email requests are slowly actioned by Service Desk which is leading to a loss of work hours in trying to log into computer drives and complete relevant paperwork.

In a day where technology is constantly growing we still find ourselves lost in cyberspace waiting for Service Desk and other Business application to action the requests which are often closed without further correspondence back to the originating officer for further information. The Branch suggests a new implementation of computer drives be actioned once the officer completes the Arrival Tab on the Transfer Event.

Moved: S Jaworski Seconded: P Gale CARRIED

sent to facilitate the court dates in line with resources available when Albany Magistrates Court is in session.

Moved: D Groenenberg Seconded: G Wishart CARRIED

4.37 CENTRAL GREAT SOUTHERN BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Government to commit to upgrading and/or replacing substandard police stations within the Central Great Southern region.

4.34 NORTHERN ROG BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to review intelligence systems with a view to consolidate and disseminate relevant real-time information to frontline officers with better access through internal and external technological means.

Explanation With increased radio traffic and limited access to information on the current TADIS system, opportunities are being missed by frontline officers who lack real-time information and intelligence. Officers are driving past high harm areas, locations, vehicles and addresses as well as dealing with offenders who have a specific modus operandi, are suspects or are wanted by police however this information is not readily available.

The system should provide: • Information currently available on TADIS through IMS as well as information on from other systems both here and interstate; • Untethered Internet access so officers can access information relevant to their duties such as addresses, contacts, profiles etc; and • A way for officers, local stations and DCC’s to communicate and capture real-time information and images.

Moved: C Marzo Seconded: M Johnson CARRIED

4.35 MIRRABOOKA BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to improve Information Technology in the 21st Century.

Explanation The WA Police Force lacks Information Technology Systems in comparison to other world organisations, and our Members are impeded by slow and unfriendly computers and software programs. A mobility project was implemented years ago but there seems to have been no positive outcome.

Moved: S Meakins Seconded: M Johnson CARRIED

4.36 CENTRAL GREAT SOUTHERN BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to supply auxiliary staff to assist with court and custodial duties at regional court circuits as soon as possible.

Explanation When Magistrates Court is held at these towns, the court orderlies and custodial duties are covered by local police officers, causing critical strain on tasking and everyday abilities. It makes sense to have extra resources

Explanation Kojonup Police Station has no cell facilities and no detainee toilet or shower facilities.

Katanning Police Station has only two usable cells and no shower facilities.

This is an ever growing problem with an increase in crime leading to an increase in detainees. There have been instances where detainees are held overnight at Katanning to attend the Katanning Court the following day due to the court circuit being held in that town.

Further, Members are reporting a lack of adequate computer terminals available, insufficient space to conduct interviews with members of the public and an overall lack of functionality in the design of the stations, of which some date back decades.

Moved: D Groenenberg Seconded: S Kent CARRIED

4.38 CENTRAL GREAT SOUTHERN BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to reduce the maximum kilometres reached by fleet vehicle before they are able to be replaced to 100,000 kms.

Explanation The current replacement kilometres means the vehicle are becoming increasingly unserviceable, requiring more maintenance and increasing safety concerns and operational abilities. Reducing the kilometres of the replacement would also allow the vehicles to be on sold for a greater value.

Numerous examples of patrol vehicles with 140,000 to 160,000 kms are a common place.

Moved: D Groenenberg Seconded: D Flaherty CARRIED

4.39 SEX CRIMES BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to reassess the need to carry out the Deployment Readiness Test and for transparency of the process of the “Deployment Test” should people fail to satisfy the DRT. Explanation The Deployment Readiness Test has been implemented for the past three years. With the three years of data that exists what has happened to the staff that have been injured in completing the course, what has occurred to staff that have failed the DRT. 35 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

The need for transparency with what will happen to those people and whether the DRT has had any effect on the abilities of members to perform their duties.

Moved: B Mansas Seconded: D Flaherty CARRIED

4.40 ROCKINGHAM KWINANA BRANCH

Explanation Active shooter/terrorist incidents are becoming more prevalent in recent years highlighting the need to review the way police deal with these types of combatants. Offenders utilise various weapons such as, but not limited to firearms, knives, explosives, chemicals and vehicles with very little time for frontline officers to respond.

Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to amend policy, to permit the carriage of all accoutrements at all times whilst on duty.

It is requested that WA Police review current procedures, equipment and deployment of resources related to this issue. Tactical Response Group are the only unit fully equipped to deal with these types of incidents.

Explanation In this current policing climate, where emphasis is placed on safety and security, there is no justifiable reason as to why officers are instructed to remove firearms when performing specific duties, such as custodial duties and suspect interviews.

Due to the expansive area WA Police cover it is important to equip, train and deploy more officers to deal with these incidents in a timely manner for the safety of officers and the community. Some examples of equipment include semi-automatic rifles, ballistic shields or vests, chemical masks, compact tyre deflation devices, triage kits etc.

Police often conduct suspect interviews at search warrants and during traffic stops without the need to remove accoutrements. Police also deal with suspects throughout their working shift and do not remove accoutrements prior to interacting with them.

Moved: C Marzo Seconded: D Flaherty CARRIED

Moved: W Dowbysch Seconded: H Russell CARRIED

4.41 STATE INTELLIGENCE BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to change Police Regulations to allow Members of the WA Police Force the option to wear beards.

Explanation At 2016 Annual Conference, a motion was passed requesting that the Board of Directors write to the Commissioner of Police in regard to the wearing of beards. That request was met with a negative reply from the Executive Director, Anthony Kannis. Since that time, both the Commissioner of Police and the Executive Director have left WA Police. It is timely to lobby the new Commissioner of Police in regard to the wearing of beards.

Nearly all Australian Police jurisdictions including Australian Federal Police as well as UK Police and New Zealand Police, allow members to wear beards.

The current Western Australian regulations are very old and do not reflect the modern day society where a large proportion of males in society wear beards.

Beards are a choice for individual officers. If the regulations are changed to allow the wearing of beards, it is still an individual choice.

WA Police in days of old were allowed to wear beards.

WITHDRAWN

4.42 NORTHERN ROG BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to review, resource and deploy advanced equipment and training to deal with active shooter/terrorist incidents.

36 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

4.43 GREAT SOUTHERN BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to remove the requirement to complete an annual performance agreement.

Explanation They have become a waste of man hours usually performed in a rush by a manager under pressure because it is overdue and they need to ‘tick another box’. They are usually generic to rank and position and are of little or no benefit to the member for development or promotion, or for management as they do not actually reflect the performance of the individual or their successes and failures.

The private sector is already moving to other methods. The Microsoft company has decided to disband its performance management process after decades of use. The private sector is moving towards managing by talking about performance regularly and letting employees create their own goals on a regular basis.

People tend to have a good idea of their own strengths and weaknesses – give them an open and positive opportunity to share it. That starts the dialogue about expectations and the match between their self-assessment and that of the organisation.

Moved: D Richmond Seconded: D Flaherty LOST

5.0 WELFARE

5.1 EXECUTIVE Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to consider changing the title of the Health and Safety Division to reflect the welfare activities which are undertaken by this section.

Explanation Welfare is a vital part of the work carried out by this area and needs to be recognised in the business title. Numerous professional organisations have expressed their view that welfare is a vital part of employees’ workplace needs and requires recognition to ensure members’ wellbeing.

Moved: B Shortland Seconded: H Russell CARRIED

5.2 LEEUWIN NATURALISTE BRANCH Conference directs the Board of Directors to lobby the Commissioner of Police to ensure that Members are contacted either in person or on telephone

by Health and Safety Division following critical incidents, rather than via a generic email. Information, and if applicable, referrals to further assistance and support should then be offered during this contact.

Explanation At the moment (especially regional) police officers often attend serious incidents like fatal crashes, child abuse sex assaults/ sudden death and often failed resuscitation attempts by officers. We obviously deal with the situation at present, complete the relevant paperwork and in about one to two weeks we MAY receive an email from Health and Safety Division stating they are available if we would like to speak to them.

Most officers have never responded to the token Health and Safety email (some find it impersonal).

All officers are then expected at work the next day to act as if nothing has happened, continue with completing paperwork or an investigation.

This is not ideal for the longevity of officers’ mental health. We all joined the job to make a difference and help at these type of incidents. However, most of us will never admit to or want to voluntarily talk to a Health and Safety representative/counsellor about incidents we attend. The situation has been that we all just “box on” like normal, not realising how it has or if it has affected us.

It is important to make this mandatory or would be that it ends up being like every other “entitlement” where it’s discouraged by supervisors and peers and it would fall into the same category of not claiming a meal allowance. It would also eliminate some of the stigma currently in place regarding officers seeking assistance and support.

Health and Safety making personal contact, even by telephone with officers the very next day, or for a representative to visit them has got to be better than an impersonal email.

Follow up information and or referrals could then be more easily tailored to the individuals and circumstances.

Moved: T Saxon Seconded: D Flaherty CARRIED

37 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

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01

ADVENTURE CLUB

02

Hitting the Holland Track

BY NATHAN DEVENISH

WAPU Adventure Club’s first trip down the Holland Track was a great success.

03 04

01 & 02 Tackling the mud bog holes. 03 Members enjoying some camp fire tales. 04 Members who took part in the Holland Track trip.

A late arrival for some at the Hyden Caravan Park on Friday night, including one Member filling up with petrol instead of diesel, was the start of a good weekend.

Starting the track Saturday morning allowed everyone to ease into the relatively dry conditions and have a play in what mud remained in the giant bog holes.

A steep drop off into one bog hole showed the black D-Max why a steel rear bar can come in handy, tearing the stock aluminium one from its mounts.

We had a quick stop off at Mount Holland for lunch and then packed away the kilometres in the afternoon.

Camping along the track in perfect weather provided some awesome scenery. The nights were enjoyed with a few beers next to a raging fire, under a starry sky.

Sunday, much the same took us through varying scenery of woodlands and low lying scrub, showing just how remote and diverse the Goldfields landscape can be. With good pace, we managed to make it to Cave Hill Reserve where we set up camp for the night.

Monday morning was a short 100km drive into Coolgardie where most of the group refuelled and prepared for the 550km drive back to Perth.

Thanks to all the Members who came along and looking forward to another run up the track next year.

39 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

PAUL HUNT Secretary

IR Review to improve the system?

IN SEPTEMBER, THE STATE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCED A MINISTERIAL REVIEW of the State Industrial Relations System.

The last comprehensive review and update to the legislation took place in 2002.

Since that time several reviews have been undertaken, most recently under the Barnett Liberal Government in 2013 which saw the Public Sector Wages Policy given prominence in the WA Industrial Relations Commission’s decision making process.

The State industrial relations system covers approximately one third of employees in WA, including the vast majority of public sector workers. All police, Aboriginal police liaison and police auxiliary officers are employed within the State industrial relations system with their conditions of employment contained in State registered industrial agreements under the Industrial Relations Act 1979 (WA).

WAPU has made a submission to the Review which is being conducted by former Acting President of the WAIRC Mark Ritter SC, who is assisted by former Australian Workers Union State Secretary, now Member for Forrestfield, Stephen Price MLA. A number of the 2002 changes to the Act dealt with police officers and WAPU. Schedule 3 was introduced to give recognition to WAPU, the Commissioner of Police as your employer and formal access to the State industrial relations system for a number of matters. However, under Schedule 3(2)(3) the WAIRC, in any of its iterations, cannot enquire into or deal with

WAPU submits that it is inequitable for our Members to be burdened by a general wages policy that applies to all public sector workers and at the same time be denied the benefit of access to the independent tribunal for issues which other workers can have reviewed and resolved.

40 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

matters arising from transfer, demotion, reduction in salary, suspension from duty, removal, discharge, dismissal or cancellation of appointments for police officers, police auxiliary officers and Aboriginal police liaison officers.

While some of these issues are dealt with under the Police Act 1892, some such as transfers are not. Accordingly, WAPU has at every opportunity lobbied governments and made submissions to reviews on industrial relations seeking the ability for Members to take their disputes on those matters to the WAIRC for review and resolution.

Our submissions to this Review cover three areas: Wider access to the WAIRC; changes to the definition of ‘employee’ to give you better protections; and a change to legislation to compel or sanction parties who do not genuinely bargain in good faith for industrial agreements.

Successive State Governments have oppressed bargaining across the public sector with restrictive wages policies that prescribe arbitrary barriers and prevent genuine bargaining.

This applies to our Members and other public sector workers alike however, unlike all other public sector workers, our Members are denied access to industrial tribunals to have many of their disputes dealt with.

WAPU submits that it is inequitable for our Members to be burdened by a general wages policy that applies to all public sector workers and at the same time be denied the benefit of access to the independent tribunal for issues which other workers can have reviewed and resolved. We will be seeking the removal of the restrictions imposed by Schedule 3(2)(3), to give our Members a fairer system to resolve their disputes and bring them into line with every other worker in the State.

We will also be seeking a change to the definition of ‘employee’ for the purposes of other employment related legislation, such as the Minimum Conditions Of Employment Act 1993 and Fair Work Act 2009.

Under a number of case law decisions it is clear police officers, by virtue of their independent oath of office and autonomy, are not technically ‘employees’. However, because of this an anomaly arises when it comes to certain entitlements afforded to all workers under various legislation.

INDUSTRIAL REPORT

Public sector workers are disadvantaged by a Government that protracts the process and ultimately offers the same deal at the eleventh hour.

WAPU has identified the unfair result for our Members accessing parental leave arrangements. For example, if the technicality associated with the definition of ‘employee’ was overcome, our Members returning from parental leave would be entitled to return to the very same position they occupied before commencing parental leave as required under State and Federal legislation.

Members will be aware of protracted and at times bitter disputes around bargaining for industrial agreements for police and police auxiliary officers. The later requiring arbitration to resolve the impasse between Members and Government. The prime reason bargaining has been unable to reach a mutually acceptable result is the State Government’s refusal to bargain beyond its own arbitrary wages policy, which is effectively presented as a take it or leave it option.

The Act requires parties bargaining for an industrial agreement to “bargain in good faith”. Unfortunately, where a party fails to bargain in good faith and the WAIRC has been unable to successfully encourage them to do so, the parties ultimately need to pursue arbitration for a result.

WAPU’s experience, which is shared by other public sector unions, is Government protracting negotiations and only delivering an offer based strictly on wages policy

EMERGENCY 24/7 DIRECTOR 0438 080 930

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parameters, at the eleventh hour. When refusing to include any items that add cost to the outcome, such as increased allowances and conditions, it is reasonable to conclude the bargaining process is mere lip service and a waste of time for all involved. Demonstrably, Government rigidly adhere to the basic wages policy in all of its offers, so it is unreasonable to protract bargaining rather than make an offer earlier in the process.

WAPU submits there needs to be mechanisms similar to federal legislation to compel parties to “genuinely bargain” for an agreement. Where non-compliance, or unnecessary protraction of the process is caused by one party, some sanction should be applied. Public sector workers are disadvantaged by a Government that protracts the process and ultimately offers the same deal at the eleventh hour.

Add to this the arbitrary wages policy constraint that prohibits backdating of any increases, and Members are pressured to consider the “offer” in a short timeframe under threat of losing back pay.

The State’s industrial relations system is in need of a contemporary makeover and the Review, which is due to be released early in the new year, should be the catalyst of changes to deliver equity for our Members.

Mick Kelly

EMERGENCY DIRECTOR

WAPU

wapu.org.au admin@wapu.org.au

41

POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

DEAN GIACOMINI Field Officer

&

DAVE LAMPARD Field Officer

Home of the Brave GENERALLY ATTRIBUTED TO THE PEOPLE OF SCOTLAND HOWEVER, in the context of policing WA it is an apt description for the partners of police officers serving in the remote areas of the State.

The days of expressing the often heard management one liner, “In my day we…” are long gone. A significant number of executive management have never served in the bush and would not have a clue about having to tolerate living in a dump.

42 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

These partners need to possess a hide of thick leather to put up with some of the challenges thrown at them by the employers of their partners, in regards to where they are required to live and enjoy peaceful existence when their partners are off duty.

The editorial of the October 1978 Police News paid tribute to the North-West Police Wives.

It praised these stalwarts of the bush in the manner they tolerated adverse climatic conditions for example, Wyndham where it was basically 100 degrees every day of the year, often had inferior housing and other aspects of life in remote areas.

Forty years on and most readers would expect that vast improvements have been made to address situations for police families. Well, sadly the same struggles exist and are even more stressful due to the additional pressures placed on police officers.

I abhor the expression often banded out about by some senior managers: “We don’t employ your partner.”

That may be the case, however the WA Police Force together with GROH should ensure that the Member’s partner and children have a decent, safe, clean and reasonably sized home to reside in. After all, a happy police officer will put in more than is required of his or her duties and the last thing they need is dealing with stressful housing issues, often when on duty. If they don’t, they spend a few nights sleeping on the couch.

Recently, WAPU wrote to the Minister for Housing and pointed out to him the failures of the State Government through the GROH scheme in regards to decent, safe, clean and reasonably sized homes for our Members where all maintenance issues are addressed within a reasonable time frame.

Reliance on the leasing of privately owned homes by GROH and sublet to the WA Police Force for occupation by our Members is fraught with issues when insufficient pre-planning takes place when a lease cannot be renewed.

Certain areas of the State should only provide GROH built and owned homes. This will ensure certainty of availability, standard sizes and encourage our Members to take care of the homes as they will be passed onto the next incoming police family.

The days of expressing the often heard management one liner, “In my day we…” are long gone. A significant number of executive management have never served in the bush and would not have a clue about having to tolerate living in a dump.

WAPU’s Field Officers attend regular interagency meetings with WA Police Force and GROH and we will continue to press our Members’ claims for quality accommodation when they are stationed in the bush.

CUE POLICE STATION CONDEMNED This edition’s “Dump of the Month” has been awarded to Cue Police Station, which was built in 1896 and is no longer suitable for use as a modern police facility.

Field Officer Dean Giacomini condemned the Cue Police Station recently due to its age and unsuitability for a modern day police station.

“We hold significant concerns with asbestos in the building and combined with the lack of front counter security, no adequate holding facility for prisoners, a portable toilet block in the backyard with no inside toilets for staff or public use, the facility is horrendous,” Mr Giacomini said.

“No disabled access to the building and no secure parking area for police vehicles or private vehicles belonging to officers working there are also issues to add to the long list.

“It is a beautiful heritage listed building and a fine example of early WA history and architecture but it is not a modern day police station.”

Mr Giacomini said WAPU raised the issues at Cue last year in the Pre-Election Submission.

“Shame on the WA Government for allowing this building to be used as a police station in 2017, it is just another example of how they are failing police officers in this State,” he said.

FIELD REPORT

02 01

01 An example of some of the deplorable conditions WAPU Members have to put up with in regional WA. 02 Cue condemned signs.

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LEGAL

Lawyer, Tindall Gask Bentley Lawyers

A question of following orders CAN A MEMBER BE ORDERED by a more senior police officer to prefer a criminal charge under the Criminal Procedure Act 2004 (CPA), when the more junior officer is not satisfied of the charge’s appropriateness?

It is a question that we, as WAPU’s legal services provider, are sometimes asked by Members.

In those circumstances, the short answer is no; a police officer cannot be ordered to prefer a charge where they aren’t supportive of the charge.

A police officer in that situation is likely to have a reasonable excuse to not comply with such an order and, in fact, would be well advised not to comply with such an order.

The starting point is to appreciate that a criminal prosecution in WA must be commenced by a natural person, and in the case of police prosecutions, this will be a police officer acting in the course of their duties. A police officer who issues the Prosecution Notice is the prosecutor for the purpose of the CPA throughout a summary jurisdiction prosecution, as opposed to other police officers who may have been involved in the investigation, or who have directed that police officer to issue the Prosecution Notice. This also means that the person in the position of a prosecutor is personally named as the respondent to any appeal to the Supreme Court against a conviction or penalty imposed by a court of summary jurisdiction, as opposed to the “State of WA” or “WA Police Force”.

A police officer who has been ordered to prefer a charge but doesn’t believe in the guilt of the accused should refuse to carry out that order, on the basis that it is not a lawful order and in any event they have good and sufficient cause to refuse to carry it out.

Assuming the role of prosecutor is not a matter to be taken lightly. To prefer a charge when the prosecutor does not reasonably believe in the guilt of the accused is risky and can expose prosecutors to personal civil liability. Police officers are expected and required to honestly believe the case in which they institute and maintain. If a prosecutor initiates or continues to maintain a criminal charge in which they do not honestly believe in; these acts could establish grounds for a finding of malice.

At common law, the State has no liability for tortious activity of police officers, and this includes liability for malicious prosecution. The common law has been modified by legislation and in WA the current civil liability protection for police officers is limited to acts done without corruption or malice. The difficulty is malicious prosecution is an intentional tort and both the cause of action and the civil liability protection of the Police Act 1892 include malice as an element. Therefore, it is usually difficult for a police officer who is successfully sued for malicious prosecution to avail themselves of the Police Act 1892 civil liability protection.

Additionally, an order requiring a police officer to prefer a charge, when that police officer does not hold the genuine belief of the guilt of the accused, is not likely to be a lawful order.

The obligation under regulation 603 of the Police Force Regulations 1979 to obey orders only relates to lawful ones.

When considering whether an order is lawful, some general principles should be kept in mind:

1. Police officers are not employees of the State. They are appointed to office under the Police Act 1892; 2. Police officers of ten exercise ‘original authorit y’ entrusted to them by common law rule or statute. For example, the power to prosecute summary offences in the CPA is vested in individual police officers, not the WA Police Force or the State generally.

3. The obligation for police officers to comply with legislation applying to them arises from their Subscription Oath to serve the Sovereign; and 4. A statutory obligation trumps a direction from the Executive arm of government.

Police officers are expected to uphold and apply the CPA. They can only be expected to do so in a lawful manner, even in the face of a contrary direction. A police officer cannot be compelled to assume the role of prosecutor under the CPA with all the obligations and responsibilities attached to that unless they are satisfied the prosecution is appropriate and justifiable under the CPA. A police officer who has been ordered to prefer a charge but doesn’t believe in the guilt of the accused should refuse to carry out that order, on the basis that it is not a lawful order and in any event they have good and sufficient cause to refuse to carry it out. This would not prevent the more senior officer from assuming the role of prosecutor by signing the Prosecution Notice themselves and having carriage of the prosecution, if they have formed a different belief about the guilt of the accused.

45 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

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On duty and eating healthy – avoiding the obesity trap AUSTRALIA’S BULGING waistline is continuing to expand and police are among the worst offenders.

No officer would accept second-rate components for a patrol car or other equipment as it could jeopardise safety, so why compromise on your food?

Eating well during rotating shifts is challenging and takes effort. But planning for food breaks is essential because the convenience of fast food joints is a trap that ensnares many officers, especially the young and single.

In the US, the police and other emergency service workers rate as the fattest among all professions and there are concerns that Australians are at risk of catching up.

According to a recent study, more than 40 per cent of US police, firefighters and security guards are obese – a deeply worrying statistic as it impacts on their health, safety and ability to do the job.

While their Australian counterparts don't rate quite as badly, there is no room for complacency.

Research from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows that a whopping 63.4 per cent of the adult population is overweight or obese – and the figure continues to increase.

The obesity epidemic is now among Australia’s most serious health concerns as it’s a major contributor to heart disease and strokes.

Carrying too much weight also increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis, sleep apnoea and mental health issues, and raises the chances of developing a wide range of cancers.

In the force, that extra fat also becomes a safety issue for yourself and colleagues as it limits your ability to operate at peak capacity in times of danger.

For your own health and wellbeing, start the New Year with a tactical response to your daily eating habits.

THE RISKS OF POOR NUTRITION As a shift worker, fast food is definitely an easy meal option – but in most cases it really should be a last resort.

While there are some ‘healthyish’ fast foods available, many are certainly not healthy and can directly impact how you feel.

No officer would accept secondrate components for a patrol car or other equipment as it could jeopardise safet y, so why compromise on your food?

In many cases, fast food is highly processed and contains excessive amounts of carbohydrates, sugar, unhealthy fats and salt. All too often the foods are high in calories yet offer little or no nutritional value.

The result is poor nutrition which, even in the short term, can lead to ill health and weight gain. Long term, the risks of suffering chronic disease is high.

Young, fit officers may think they are immune but poor eating becomes habit forming. Without real determination it can be hard to reverse the slow build-up of flab and associated health problems.

PLAN WELL TO EAT WELL While eating well is sensible and easy, for officers juggling shift work it may require a bit of organising and preparation before you begin work.

Being prepared is particularly important for those long overnight shifts when the only places open tend to be fast food outlets.

Buy yourself an insulated cooler bag and some plastic storage containers and start planning a few snack and meal options.

Nutritionists recommend you have a balanced diet involving lean or lowfat proteins along with carbohydrates to keep your body fuelled for the shift.

Aim for: • plenty of vegetables, legumes and fruits; • a variety of cereals such as breads, rice and pasta, preferably wholegrain; • lean meat, fish and poultry; and • milk, yoghurts or cheeses.

A combination of protein and fibre from whole grains, nuts, vegetables and fruit is great snacking food to keep you going before a main meal.

If you’re into sandwiches, use wholegrain breads and wraps and fill them with lean fillings such as tuna, cheese, lean meats, chicken and sliced eggs. You can make them more interesting by adding a few fresh salad ingredients, such as cucumber, onion, lettuce and tomatoes.

Continued on page 53 47 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

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AUTOS AND TWO-WHEEL-DRIVE

… the new range includes 17 selfshifters, up from 12 previously, along with two new two-wheel-drive Hi-Riders, growing the range from three models to five.

According to Toyota, HiLux drivers want three things – diesel, auto transmission and two-wheel drive. So they’re giving the people what they want. To meet demand, the new range includes 17 self-shifters, up from 12 previously, along with two new twowheel-drive Hi-Riders, growing the range from three models to five. An affordable option for buyers who don’t need full-on, off-road capability but want the looks and superior ground clearance of a HiLux 4x4, they’re sure to be top-sellers.

SR CHANGES SR buyers have also been vocal about what they want in a set of wheels, and it doesn’t include carpet. Hard wearing, durable PVC floor coverings are now standard in all models, and the SR extra cab-chassis in manual also makes a reappearance, along with a newly added automatic version.

THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE All in all, there are still 31 HiLux variants on the market, including 23 genuine one-tonners. Fuel economy varies from 7.1 to 7.7 litres per 100 kilometres for manuals and 8.3 to 8.5 per 100 kilometres for six speed autos.

And a further benefit for the budget conscious, the entire new range is covered by Toyota Service Advantage capped-price servicing, ensuring a flat $180 per service for petrol and $240 per service for diesel.

TIME FOR A NEW SET OF WHEELS? If you are interested in learning more about the new HiLux range, or any other vehicle, the team at Fleet Network have extensive experience in negotiating, procuring and salary packaging vehicles across Australia.

Speak to one of Fleet Network’s expert Consultants for an obligation-free quote on a novated lease today. Let us show you how to best use your pre-tax salary and save thousands on your next new car. It’s one of the benefits of being a WAPU Member.

Call Fleet Network on 1300 738 601 or visit www.fleetnetwork.com.au/wapu 49 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

READ

WATCH

THE BOY BEHIND THE CURTAIN

THE FIRST CASUALTY PETER GRESTE RRP: $35.00

In a world where the first casualty of war is truth, journalism has become the new battleground.

Peter Greste spent two decades reporting from the frontline in the world’s most dangerous countries before making headlines himself following his own incarceration in an Egyptian prison. Charged with threatening national security, and enduring a sham trial, solitary confinement and detention for 400 days, Greste himself became a victim of the new global war on journalism.

TIM WINTON RRP: $24.99 Based on extensive interviews and research, Greste shows how this war on journalism has spread to the West, not just in the murders at the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo or the repressions of Putin’s Russia, but Australia’s metadata laws and Trump’s phony war on ‘fake news’.

In this courageous, compelling, vital account Greste unpicks the extent to which modern investigative journalism is under threat, and the fraught quest – and desperate need – for truth in the age of terrorism.

‘Being a copper’s son, I’ve always got one eye out for trouble. I can’t help it.

But I don’t go looking for it anymore.’

In Tim Winton’s fiction, chaos shapes the lives of his characters.

So too Winton’s own life. The extraordinarily powerful true stories that make up The Boy Behind the Curtain take us behind the scenes, revealing the accidents, both serendipitous and traumatic, that have influenced his view of life and fuelled his distinctive artistic vision.

By turns impassioned, funny, joyous, astonishing, this is Winton’s most personal book to date, an insight into the man who’s held us enthralled for three decades and helped us reshape our view of ourselves. Behind it all, from risk-taking youth to surprise-averse middle age, has been the crazy punt of staking everything on becoming a writer.

WIN Thanks to Penguin Books we have one copy of The First Casualty and The Boy Behind the Curtain to give away. To enter, email jessica.porter@wapu.org.au with your name, work address and title of the book. Winners will be drawn on 2 January, 2018.

POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

GEORGE GENTLY SEASON 8 RRP: $34.99

The North of England's most upstanding detective, George Gently (Martin Shaw), returns to work the beat alongside his trusted partner. Together they investigate murder and corruption set against the turbulent tide of 1970s Britain.

SEE

SLASHER SEASON 2 RRP: TBA

Brought together by a horrific secret they’ve long kept buried, a group of former summer camp counsellors must return to an isolated resort in the dead of winter to retrieve evidence of a crime they committed in their youth.

Deep in the snow-covered wilderness, the run-down camp has now become a private spiritual commune, cut-off from civilization by weather, wilderness, and choice. Before long, the group and the commune members find themselves gruesomely targeted by someone – or something – out for horrific revenge.

THE WINDSORS COMPLETE SERIES 1 AND 2 RRP: $34.99

Comedy soap opera re-imagining the lives of the British Royal Family as you have never seen them before.

The Windsors is a fictional comedy soap opera, following the imagined lives and loves of a family, with big comic characters loosely based on Wills & Kate, Prince Harry & Pippa Middleton, Camilla and Charles, and various other royals.

ENTERTAIN ME

THE COMMUTER

SWINGING SAFARI

In this action-packed thriller, Liam Neeson plays an insurance salesman, Michael, on his daily commute home, which quickly becomes anything but routine.

After being contacted by a mysterious stranger, Michael is forced to uncover the identity of a hidden passenger on his train before the last stop.

As he works against the clock to solve the puzzle, he realises a deadly plan is unfolding and is unwittingly caught up in a criminal conspiracy. One that carries life and death stakes for himself and his fellow passengers.

1970s Australia: A 200-ton blue whale washes up on a local beach and the kids think it's the biggest thing that's ever happened in their lives.

Behind closed doors, the Mums and Dads of this quiet suburban cul-de-sac celebrate in their own special way, by joining the sexual revolution.

It’s a time of boxed wine, bad hair, bad styles, bad choices, but good times. And like the rotting whale, it's all about to go spectacularly wrong.

SEASON COMMENCES January 11

SEASON COMMENCES January 18

WIN

WIN

Thanks to NIX CO entertainment, we have five copies of George Gently Season 8, Slasher Season 2 and The Windsors Complete Series 1 and 2 to give away. To enter, email jessica.porter@wapu.org.au with your name, work address and title of the movie. Winners will be drawn on 2 January, 2018.

We have two double passes to give away to The Commuter and Swinging Safari.

To enter, email jessica.porter@wapu.org.au with your name, work address and title of the movie. Winners will be drawn on 2 January, 2018.

51 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

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HEALTH

RETIREMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

VALE

Continued from page 47

Avoid too many white foods because they are invariably processed with many of the fibres, vitamins and minerals stripped away.

Food made from refined carbs such as white bread, pasta and rice also have minimal nutritional value.

Anything with too much salt, sugar and fat should be avoided. This covers many of the so-called health snacks, such as muesli and yoghurt bars, which can be loaded with all three.

Good planning is also a good way of keeping your diet in check when it comes to main meals.

If you’ve got a microwave at work take in some leftovers or deliberately cook extra portions of main meals and freeze them.

KEEP HYDRATED Drinking fluids is a crucial part of keeping in good shape as it maintains the function of every system in your body, including your brain, heart and muscles.

People often don't get enough fluids and risk becoming dehydrated, which is particularly hazardous in summer when we perspire more.

Staying hydrated can be an inconvenience in particular situations, such as in a patrol car when you want to avoid too many trips to the loo.

So try sticking to plain tap water because drinks such as coffee are mildly diuretic and lead to more frequent toilet breaks.

Also avoid fizzy drinks as they are loaded with sugar – about 10 teaspoons in a 375mL can of cola.

DID YOU KNOW? You should only eat dried fruit in small amounts. While dried fruit can boost your fibre and nutrient intake and supply large amounts of antioxidants, the sugar and calorie content is very high.

RETIRING MEMBERS 7731 Michael SEARS 11041 Pauline VALLANCE 11855 Nadine BEAR 13692 Jonathan KEARNEY

RESIGNING MEMBERS

RETIRED 2970 Sergeant DAVID BARRON Aged 84 3159 Chief Inspector MAXWELL AUSTIN KIMBER Aged 83 3020 1/C Sergeant DANIEL MERVYN MURRAY Aged 91

7350 Anne VAN AKEN 7775 Jeffrey O'DONNELL 8606 Glen ROBERTS 11526 Glen STODDART 11580 Katie PATERSON 11865 Mark SURMAN 12165 Nikki HOUSTON 12963 Vincent CHONG 13014 Timothy SMITH 14315 Aaron WALLIS 14584 Joshua HORNSEY 14881 Tyrrell LEVITT 15502 Michael JAMES 15700 Charles RIED 15782 Lucilla GRAINGER 50000 Harry DENNIS

DUE TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT’S TOKEN COMMITMENT TO ADDITIONAL POLICE OFFICERS, THERE ARE NO NEW MEMBERS TO INCLUDE IN THIS EDITION.

53 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

Network of Women, Not only Women!

Get involved WAPU NOW aims to promote female participation and increase diversity within WAPU to better represent and support the WA Policing community.

Jazz Lawford Vice Chair

YAMMER CONTACT

• Go to www.yammer.com • Sign up with work email • Join police.wa.gov.au network • Request to join the WAPU NOW group • Get the Yammer App on your phone for ease of use and updates!

Amity Hudson Chair

* WAPU SCHOOL HOLIDAY BALLOT APPLICATION APPLICATIONS WILL ONLY BE ACCEPTED ON THIS FORM, It can be faxed, emailed or posted to WAPU HQ. Complete and return by Friday, 19 January 2018 to: WA Police Union 639 Murray Street, West Perth WA 6005 Fax: 9321 2177 Email: admin@wapu.org.au Results to be advised by Friday, 26 January 2018

OCTOBER 2018

WEEK 1 22.09.18 – 29.09.18

ALBANY

Name (Please Print):

BUSSELTON VILLA 4

PD No:

BUSSELTON VILLA 11

Address (Home):

BUSSELTON VILLA 15 Post Code:

Work (Unit/Section):

Only mark the holiday periods and locations you are prepared to accept in numerical order of preference.

Note: Bookings are available from Saturday (2pm) to Saturday (10am) only.

ESPERANCE EXMOUTH KALBARRI UNIT 27

Email (Home): Phone no. (Work): (Mobile): POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

KALBARRI UNIT 71 PORT DENISON YALLINGUP

WEEK 2 29.09.18 – 06.10.18

EITHER WEEK

FROM THE ARCHIVES

CONSOLIDATION IN THE WESTERN “BURBS”

DECEMBER 2003

In D e ce mb e r 20 03 , WA Po lice management identified the need to develop and implement an economically viable alternative strategy designed to address, rationale and refocus staffing and resources in the Western suburbs.

The Nedlands Police Station was to close permanently, Claremont Police Station was to become a “day station” and the Cottesloe Traffic Office was also to close permanently. This meant the creation of one operational policing heart in the subdistrict, Cottesloe.

Senior Sergeant Phil Birch took on the responsibility of the new strategy with 26 personnel stationed at Cottesloe. The new staff meant the officers would occupy the original station, the quarters plus a transportable.

Senior Sergeant Phil Birch

Claremont Police Station

Cottesloe Police Station

CHRISTMAS – GIFT WRAPPED! Police officers at Menzies Police Station received a welcomed early Christmas present back in 2003.

Even though the new vehicle was slightly used, the vehicle arrived with the assistance of the Variety Club Bashers and was even gift wrapped.

The local officers were lured away from the station to have lunch with the visiting bashers, while the vehicle was secretly delivered and gift wrapped – so the officers were completely surprised when they returned to their “new” vehicle.

The two-man Menzies Police Station was eventually closed a few years later in 2007.

Nedlands Police Station

POLICE NEWS MEETS THE PM Then Prime Minister John Howard made a special appearance in Police News when he was snapped with Police Federation of Australia Women’s Advisory Committee Delegate Noreen O’Rourke at the opening of the PFA’s new headquarters in Canberra.

55 POLICE NEWS DECEMBER 2017

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