The Police Association would like to make its position absolutely clear with respect to police corruption and the operation of our Legal Representation Cost Fund in light of some media reports in recent days.

The Association does, and has always, denounced any form of corruption in the strongest possible terms and we fully support our members who perform anti-corruption work.

However we insist on ensuring principles of fairness and natural justice are applied to anyone accused of wrongdoing.

We reinforce that the Association only provides legal representation to members acting in good faith and who meet the strict criteria under our rules and that all cost fund applications by members are determined by your elected Executive.

Over 80 percent of Association members granted funding from the Legal Representation Cost Fund are acquitted at court. Your Association will continue to properly and rigorously defend you and your rights according to law and our duties.

It is unfortunate and sad that some individuals imply this position promotes corruption, so as to intentionally mislead and distract our members and the broader community from many unresolved issues affecting you, the members. 

Comments of this nature serve no purpose other than to denigrate the good reputation of all honest police.

It is no coincidence that these unprecedented attacks on our reputation are occurring at a time when the Association is in the midst of crucial enterprise bargaining negotiations on behalf of members and pursuing important resourcing and rostering campaigns.

The Association will not be deterred by this campaign and will continue to vigorously pursue the issues that affect our members everyday. 

Paul Mullet
Secretary