Please find the following statement from Police Commissioner Grant Stevens:
I am aware of the step taken by the Police Association of South Australia and have spoken to Premier Peter Malinauskas. He has told me and stated publicly that Deputy Commissioner Linda Williams and I have his full support and confidence.
The police union’s step is disappointing because, while the delegates have expressed their opinion, it is not reflective of the daily feedback I receive through my constant interaction with officers on the frontline.
The reality is most crime in South Australia is down and public confidence in South Australia Police (SAPOL) remains high. This fact is also reflected in the constant interaction I have with the public.
And significantly, SAPOL resources are at historic record levels and are continuing to increase.
SAPOL is currently the only jurisdiction that is at full establishment. This does not happen by accident.
Since 2022 my direct engagement with government has resulted in positive resourcing outcomes that have secured funding for 750 new positions – the majority of those being police officers and police security officers (PSOs).
But there is more to do.
I have previously publicly acknowledged there are challenges in attracting officers to some regional locations, many beyond the capacity of SAPOL to resolve, but I am committed to finding sustainable solutions to this and boosting numbers in all country regions.
Last week I announced significant changes to our policing model in response to concerns identified by the workforce and many other initiatives are being developed and implemented that will reduce demands on frontline officers.
I am focused on continuing to ease the pressure on the workforce, addressing the key issues responsible and introducing meaningful change to address them.
History shows that better outcomes are achieved for SAPOL and members when there is a professional and collaborative approach.
Regrettably, this does not appear to be the union’s current approach.
