Our Focus

What do we do?

The function of the Aboriginal Policy and Research Unit (APRU) is to provide a full-time facility to further improve the good relationships that exist between Victoria Police and Victorian Aboriginal Communities.

Our Objectives

• Establish, maintain and communicate best practice and service standards in relation to direct policing services as part of the broader organisational and community expectations.
• Liaise internally/externally to respond to policy gaps when responding to organisational priorities, legislative change and operational requirements
• Provide consultancy services in relation to specific program areas to enable responsive policing
• Identify and support professional development for pro-active officers, in collaboration with regional Community Engagement Units

Aboriginal Community Liaison Officer (ACLO) Program

The  Aboriginal Community Liaison Officer (ACLO) Program is an initiative of Victoria Police to enhance the relationship between Victoria Police and the Victorian Aboriginal communities. The ACLO Program provides the necessary link to engage in a proactive community policing approach that instigates positive change within the current relationships.

The key objectives of the ACLO Program are to:

• Help build a solid foundation of trust and respect between Victoria Police and the Aboriginal community
• Improve understanding between Police and the Aboriginal community through better communication and working towards positive goals.
• Provide a strategic link to Victoria Police
• Support the Victoria Police mission statement - 'A safer and more confident Victoria Police'
• All ACLOs undertake various initiatives within their local communities to assist in building solid relationships between Victoria Police and Aboriginal people.

Contact: Jacqui Marion, Statewide Coordinator - phone: 9247 5245

Police Aboriginal Liaison Officer (PALO)

Victoria Police has approximately 98 Police Aboriginal Liaison Officers (PALOs) and assistant PALOs spread over 50 police stations throughout Victoria. PALOs have a liaison role, both independently and in partnership with ACLOs, to resolve issues concerning Aboriginal people within their local area. PALOs are sworn members of Victoria Police who perform operational duties as well as performing their PALO portfolio. The APRU actively provides support and advice to PALOs building strong relationships between them, local operational police and Aboriginal communities.

Contact us

Aboriginal Policy & Research Unit 
Victoria Police Centre
637 Flinders Street
DOCKLANDS VIC 3008
General enquiries
Phone: 9247 5245
Email: ABORIGINAL POLICY & RESEARCH UNIT