9 Apr 2009

Police union concerned at changes to training

3:46 pm on 9 April 2009

The union for frontline police officers says members are worried a proposal to change staff safety training could leave some officers without essential skills.

Police national headquarters says its executive is looking at possible changes to its defensive training programme.

The Police Association says at present, most staff spend a similar amount of time on safety tactics each year.

It says under the new proposal, officers who often face conflict would receive more training, while staff in more sedentary roles would receive less.

However, Police Association president Greg O'Connor says all officers must be able to defend themselves, because they can be attacked even during routine tasks, such as delivering documents to court.

He says a minimum level of training would therefore be essential if the plan goes ahead.

Police headquarters says it cannot comment further, as the matter is under consideration.