Vic:Police uni training will help fight corruption,police union

AAP General News (Australia)
08-11-2004
Vic:Police uni training will help fight corruption,police union

MELBOURNE, Aug 11 AAP - Plans by Victoria Police which require all recruits to complete
a university course was a reflection of community standards and expectations, the state's
police union said.

Under the scheme, which could come into force as early as 2005-06, recruits would be
taught in partnership with a university, enrol as a university student and graduate with
a higher education diploma.

Victorian Police Association secretary Senior Sergeant Paul Mullett said the association
regarded policing as a profession and it supported higher education and training standards.

"It could assist safeguarding against corruption but it is important to remember that
there are only a small number of corrupt officers," he said.

"It could assist marginally but you really need to have anti-corruption strategies in place."

Sen Sgt Mullett said the plan, similar to one already in force in NSW, reflected community
standards and expectations.

"We need to keep up with community standards and the community expects its police force
to be as skilled and competent as other professions and this reflects that," he said.

Prospective police recruits would have to meet both university and Victoria Police
entry requirements to undertake the program.

Police officers would then need to continue studying and complete a bachelor of policing
to qualify as a senior constable.

Victoria Police is currently awaiting proposals from 20 of Australia's 38 universities,
who attended an information session in June, before the plan is put to tender and a university
or universities are selected.

AAP kh/gfr/rgr/jlw

KEYWORD: UNIVERSITY UNION

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