The Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) is launching a new campaign encouraging regional communities to speak out against police misconduct.
IBAC’s ‘You have the right to not remain silent’ campaign will empower members of the community to report suspected police misconduct or provide information anonymously.
IBAC has independent oversight of Victoria Police to ensure police act impartiality, professionally in accordance with the law and with respect to human rights.
This covers misconduct such as assault, disclosing sensitive police information, major cover-ups, bribery or fraud.
IBAC also takes complaints on any conduct which would bring the force into disrepute or cause the public to lose confidence in police including breaches of human rights such as racism, sexist or discriminatory use of power, degrading treatment, and the safety and wellbeing of a victim or complainant.
In 2021, IBAC received more than 1,600 complaints relating to Victoria Police, accounting for 55 per cent of IBAC’s total complaints received.
It is suggested that there may be incidents of police misconduct that go unreported by the public, particularly in parts of regional Victoria.
IBAC commissioner, The Honourable Robert Redlich AM, QC said all complaints are taken seriously and information provided by the public will help prevent and expose police misconduct.
“IBAC recognises how challenging it can be for someone to make a complaint about suspected police misconduct,” commissioner Redlich said.
“These challenges may arise for social, economic or cultural reasons or because it can be upsetting to speak out.
“IBAC manages complaints with care and sensitivity and treats a complaint as confidential when requested.
“Reporting police misconduct can assist IBAC to address systemic police misconduct issues and improve the conduct of Victoria Police’s internal investigations.”
Some complaints lead to important investigations that result in disciplinary action and criminal prosecutions.
To find out more information about reporting police misconduct to IBAC, visit ibac.vic.gov.au or phone 1300 735 135.
