National’s member for Mildura, Jade Benham and Shadow Minister for Police Brad Battin joined members of Victoria Police in Mildura today as they take unprecedented industrial action, walking off the job to demand improved working conditions and greater support for their profession.
The action reflects growing frustration among frontline police over issues such as overtime, excessive workloads, antiquated systems and insufficient resources to effectively serve the community.
Officers participating in the action have expressed concern that current conditions are impacting both their ability to perform their duties and their own mental health and wellbeing.
“Police in Mildura and across the state work tirelessly to protect our communities, often under immense pressure,” said Ms Benham.
“This walk-off is a message to the Government that our officers deserve the utmost respect, and the fact the Allan Government won’t even come to the table is outrageous.”
The industrial action in Mildura comes amid ongoing negotiations between the police union and the Victorian Government. The union has called for immediate action to address critical staffing shortages and provide better safeguards for officers’ welfare.
Community leaders and local representatives have expressed their support for the officers, urging the state government to prioritise resolving the dispute.
Shadow Minister for Police Brad Battin travelled to Mildura in support of Victoria Police.
“The frontline of Victoria Police respond to support the community in the Mallee in the face of any danger, the least the Allan Labor Government could do is respect them and return to the negotiating table.,” Mr Battin says.
