Force reverses SOCAU uniform decision

In a reversal of their decision, the Victoria Police Force has now determined that members of the Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Unit (SOCAU) will wear plain clothes at all times.  

Earlier this year, the Force informed SOCAU members that as of March 2008, they would be required to wear a uniform.  

This instruction was ill-conceived on many fronts, with a particular lack of forethought given to the impact it could have upon the welfare of victims that SOCAU members assist everyday.  

The Police Association was always sceptical and believed the Force’s instruction to be a means to conceal the resourcing problem.

Based on the concerns of the Association, the Force subsequently withdrew its instruction to SOCAU members and advised that further consultation would occur.

(A copy of the Association’s letter sent to the Chief Commissioner can be viewed via the Industrial Relations section of www.tpav.org.au). 

As a result of this process, the Force has advised via the latest gazette that SOCAU members will not be required to wear a uniform and will wear plain clothes while on duty.  

The Force has also advised that these members will be paid the full civilian clothing allowance.  

Members can check their clothing allowance entitlements via the Industrial Relations section of www.tpav.org.au.  

The Association’s previous newsletter about this matter can also be viewed at www.tpav.org.au, via the Communications section. 

Greg Davies