- Published:
- Friday 24 April 2026 at 1:24 pm
After more than 40 years of service, Deputy Commissioner Wendy Steendam has made the decision to take a period of extended leave from the end of today before progressing to the next phase of her professional career.
Deputy Commissioner Steendam - currently leading Specialist Investigations and Support - has served with distinction, performing a wide range of operational and executive roles.
This includes serving as Acting Chief Commissioner on multiple occasions.
She has led and contributed across complex portfolios including public safety, crime, intelligence and specialist operational capabilities, legal and forensic services and significant organisational reform initiatives.
Central to this work has been a sustained focus on addressing violence against women and children and improving outcomes for those most vulnerable in our community.
Deputy Commissioner Steendam is the longest serving Deputy Commissioner in Victoria Police's more than 170 year history.
She is a Member of the Order of Australia, an Australian Police Medal recipient and has been inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women.
Deputy Commissioner Libby Murphy will take over Specialist Investigations and Support from Saturday 25 April.
Assistant Commissioner Tim Hansen will be upgraded into the role of Acting Deputy Commissioner Prevention Community and Partnerships with a view to permanently remain in the role pending formal endorsement.
Chief Commissioner Mike Bush's updated executive leadership board also includes Deputy Commissioner Regional Operations Bob Hill and Deputy Secretary Corporate Services Karl Kent.
Quotes attributable to Chief Commissioner Mike Bush:
“Victoria Police thanks Wendy for her leadership, her dedication and her professionalism which will continue to benefit the organisation and wider community for many years to come.
“I wish Wendy all the very best in her next chapter.”
Media Unit
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