The Andrews Labor Government’s promise to replace outdated and unsafe police radios is a step closer today with the Minister for Police Wade Noonan announcing talks had begun with Victoria Police to replace the old system.
Country police, whose safety is being compromised by outdated police radios that let members of the public listen in to their operations, will be provided new digital radios to replace the analogue system that plagued them during the previous Coalition Government.
Mr Noonan today visited the Sale Police Station, where he last year learned first-hand the risks country police face.
After that visit, Mr Noonan was shocked to discover more than 9000 people had listened to a police pursuit via a smartphone app and scanners.
The Labor Government has promised $10 million to deliver the new digital system, which will include in-car, mobile and portable radios with a secure and encrypted network.
Mr Noonan was visiting the Sale Police Station to see the local force’s current radio system as part of a visit to Gippsland police and corrections centres.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Police, Wade Noonan
“It was in Sale that I first learned from the local police officers how critical this problem is for them.”
"That is why these visits matter, so I can learn from the police on the ground the issues that are important to them.’’
"The previous Coalition Government would not listen to the concerns of country police. The Andrews Labor Government will eliminate this major risk for police.’’
Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing
“Criminals are listening into police radios and police operations. This is compromising the safety of our police and our capacity to catch criminals.’’
``We can’t have criminals using more sophisticated communications than our police officers.’’
Reviewed 19 August 2020