Federal Member for Hinkler David Batt is calling for more support for current and former police officers.
Mr Batt, who served as a police officer for 23 years, has renewed the push for a parliamentary inquiry into the police recruitment and retention crisis.
“If there is no swift action, more lives will be lost.” Mr Batt said.
As the nation mourns the senseless and tragic deaths of Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart in Victoria, Mr Batt has told parliament that police deserve better and an inquiry should consider:
- Fringe benefit tax concessions for police officers.
- Introduction of a blue card to cover medical and allied health.
- Early access to superannuation for police officers.
In addition, Mr Batt said an inquiry should also include a full review of police suicides of serving and retired officers across Australia.
“Let us find a way to invest properly in mental health support for police, and not only while they are serving.
I don’t want to lose any more friends. Let’s make a difference now before it’s too late.”
Mr Batt acknowledged fellow MP’s who have served in the force and commended Federal Member for Wide Bay, Llew O’Brien for moving the motion noting Police Week events throughout September.
National Police Remembrance Day is on September 29.
Photo: Federal Nationals MP’s and former police officers; Pat Conaghan | David Batt | Llew O’Brien