Liberal Nationals call for return of PSO’s to platforms

Liberal Party Victoria

The Victorian Liberal Nationals are calling on Daniel Andrews to facilitate the immediate return of Protective Services Officers (PSO’s) to regular duties at train stations across Victoria.

Prior to the outbreak of COVID-19, PSO’s operated two-up patrols on all 212 metropolitan and 4 regional train stations from 6pm until the last service.

In April 2020, the Victorian Liberal Nationals supported the redeployment of PSO’s into the broader community on condition of their prompt return to platforms as soon as conditions allowed.

Despite a commitment from Police Minister Lisa Neville that PSO’s would remain at 83 stations throughout COVID-19, in August 2020, this had fallen to just 52 stations – leaving commuters safety in the hands of a lucky dip.

Since their introduction under the former Liberal Nationals Government, PSO’s have made an outstanding contribution to community safety on Victoria’s public transport network and given commuters added confidence when travelling at night.

With the majority of public and private sector employees now permitted to return to work and commuter numbers continuing to rise, Victorians deserve full coverage of PSO’s across the public transport network.

As stated by Shadow Minister for Police and Community Safety, David Southwick:

“With staff returning to work and Melbourne’s CBD open for business, it’s time to get our PSO’s back on platforms in the community.

“With fewer than one in four platforms covered by PSO’s, the safety of commuters remains in the hands of a lucky dip.

“Melbourne’s vibrant nightlife won’t return if commuters don’t feel safe. The time has come for Daniel Andrews to get PSO’s back on platforms.”

/Public Release. View in full here.