Victoria Police’s acknowledgement of the Aboriginal people of Victoria
Victoria Police acknowledges the Aboriginal people as the traditional custodians of the lands of Victoria. Victoria Police has a responsibility to interact with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in ways that are culturally safe, work in partnership with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities of Victoria to support self-determination and uphold human rights.
Historic and systemic issues within the Victorian justice system have caused significant harm to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Improving the accountability and culture of Victoria Police through adherence to the Code of Conduct is a crucial step to improving outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Policing plays an essential role upholding the rule of law in a democratic society. Since 1853 Victoria Police has been protecting and serving the Victorian community. For those who choose to serve, policing is a rewarding profession that can make a positive impact on people’s lives.
The community recognises that policing can be a demanding profession that carries risk. To ensure they can perform their duties safely and effectively, Victoria Police personnel hold significant powers, discretion, and responsibility. This authority also comes with a public expectation that all Victoria Police personnel conduct themselves ethically and professionally. Upholding the standards under the Code of Conduct is crucial to maintaining the trust and support of the community Victoria Police serves.
The Victoria Police Code of Conduct is a publicly available document issued under section 61A of the Victoria Police Act 2013 by the Chief Commissioner of Police. It sets out eight standards for all personnel. These standards are reflective of contemporary community expectations of Victoria Police and reflect the standards the vast majority of personnel already demonstrate day-to-day.
The role of policing can be both physically and emotionally challenging, with Victoria Police personnel often required to make decisions in difficult or dynamic circumstances. The Code of Conduct guides personnel to exercise discretion fairly, ethically, and in the interests of the community. The Code of Conduct also allows the community to understand the standard of service they can expect from Victoria Police.
Updated