Lakes Entrance Police Station is among facilities flagged for reopening under a proposed law and order plan announced by the Victorian Liberal and Nationals opposition.
Under the proposal, a Jess Wilson-led government would recruit 3000 additional Victoria Police officers and reopen stations that are currently closed or operating under reduced hours, including the Lakes Entrance station.
The announcement forms part of the
opposition’s Safer Communities Plan, which it says is aimed at addressing police workforce shortages and improving community safety across Victoria.
Gippsland East MP Tim Bull said local
police were doing their best under difficult conditions but required stronger resourcing from government.
“That’s why we also announced recently those who initiate police chases or speed from an incident will be held responsible under a new charge,” Mr Bull said.
The opposition claims more than 40 police stations across the state are currently closed or operating on reduced hours and that police rosters are affected by more than
1500 vacancies.
Under the plan, half of the additional recruits would be sourced from experienced officers in the United Kingdom, Ireland and New Zealand, supported by relocation incentives and targeted recruitment campaigns.
Dedicated recruitment teams would also be established to fast-track applicant processing and run multiple training squads concurrently.
Shadow Minister for Police and Corrections Brad Battin said the plan was designed to strengthen frontline policing capacity.
“This significant boost in police numbers
will provide Victoria Police with the resources they need to crack down on offending and restore community safety across our state,”
Mr Battin said.
The proposal would see increased policing capacity directed across regional Victoria, including East Gippsland, if implemented following a change of government.
