The Nationals’ Member for Mildura, Jade Benham, has condemned the Premier and the Member for Eureka for their failure to reach a pay deal with Victoria Police, leaving our hardworking officers undervalued at a time when their service has never been more critical.
With residential burglaries surging by an alarming 86 per cent in just 12 months and over 1,000 police vacancies across the state, this Government’s inaction is putting Victorian families at risk.
“Our police officers are on the frontline, protecting our communities from the growing threat of crime. Yet, this Government refuses to offer them the respect, conditions and remuneration they deserve,” Ms Benham said.
“Communities across Victoria, including in our region, are already feeling the impact of the Allan Labor Government’s failures. The lack of investment in policing has left families fearing for their safety and vulnerable to rising crime rates.”
“It’s clear this Government is more interested in chasing headlines than addressing real issues like law and order,” Ms Benham said.
“An 86 per cent spike in residential burglaries is shocking. It’s time for the Premier to stop ignoring the crisis and start investing in solutions.”
The Victorian Nationals are calling for an immediate resolution to the police pay dispute and greater prioritisation of public safety in the face of the worsening crime wave.