Victoria’s water police fleet is set for an overhaul under a $7 million plan to replace ageing vessels with modern boats.
Minister for Police Lisa Neville today announced 11 vessels in the squad’s 35-strong fleet would be replaced, with the first arriving in July.
Water police are on call 24 hours a day, patrolling Port Phillip and Western Port bays, as well as coastal, enclosed and inland waters throughout the state.
They coordinate all marine search and rescues, enforce maritime laws and regulations and ensure all vessels are equipped with appropriate safety equipment and are complying with registration requirements.
The Water Police Squad receives more than 800 calls for help every year, and checks almost 8500 vessels, jet skis and kayaks for safety compliance. Since July last year, they have issued 2892 infringements.
Its fleet ranges from large vessels to inflatable rescue boats and jet skis to allow police to work on all state waterways, as well as long off-shore rescue missions.
Under the overhaul, the VP01 Fearless will be replaced with a commercial 15m to 18m vessel and VP02 with a commercial rigid-hulled inflatable boat-style vessel between 11.5m and 11.9m.
The Andrews Labor Government is delivering the single largest investment in police in Victorian history. This includes the recruitment of 3135 new police officers on top of the numbers automatically funded to fill vacancies and retirements.
This investment also includes new and upgraded police stations, technology, powers and laws to reduce harm and keep our community safe.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Police Lisa Neville
"Our water police need a modern, well-resourced fleet. These 11 new boats will give them what they need to enforce maritime laws and make sure all Victorians can enjoy the water safely.”
“Beach or bay, lake or river, our police are out each and every day keeping Victorians safe in the water.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020