Safer Waters With Five New Police Vessels

VIC Premier

As warmer weather approaches, five new Water Police patrol vessels will keep Victorians safe on our waterways, thanks to continued investment from the Victorian Government.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Lisa Neville today announced that the five vessels will conduct marine search and rescue activities and law enforcement services this summer and for years to come.

The five new Water Police vessels – a $2,368,000 investment – will replace existing vessels that have reached their end of service.

The new vessels have increased resistance to damage and feature improved ergonomics and safety handling. They’re also equipped with Furuno technology, which allows for greater capabilities of forward-looking infrared cameras and multi-beam sonar technology.

Victoria Police’s Water Police unit provide a 24-hour response on Port Phillip and Western Port bays and other waterways throughout Victoria including coastal, enclosed and inland waters.

Water Police coordinate all marine search and rescue incidents, enforce maritime laws and regulations, and ensure that all vessels on Victorian waterways are equipped with appropriate safety equipment and are complying with registration requirements.

The fleet of 35 vessels ranges in size from large vessels to inflatable rescue boats and jet skis, allowing for patrols and deployments on all state waterways.

The squad includes the largest dedicated marine rescue vessels in Victoria, capable of extended, offshore, rescue missions.

More than 50 police officers have now been trained to use the vessels, which will be rolled out across the state from today. This completes the 12 new vessels the Victorian Government committed, a total investment of $7.2 million.

As stated by Minister for Police and Emergency Services Lisa Neville

“We’re ensuring our Water Police have the resources they need to continue their great work. These new state-of-the-art water vessels are the most resilient, efficient and safest our Water Police have ever used.”

“While Victorians are out enjoying our beaches, bays and rivers this summer, Water Police are ready 24-hours a day to respond to incidents and keep the community safe.”

/Public Release. View in full here.