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Policing

Policing involves preventing, investigating and solving crime. In Victoria this is done by Victoria Police who also responds to a range of emergencies involving threats to life, property or the environment.

Victoria Police is a statutory authority in the justice portfolio and reports to the Minister for Police through the Police Commissioner. Police work under the Police Regulations Act 1958 and under priorities set to meet changing community needs.

Police role

Since the service began in 1853, the role of the police has expanded from a primary focus on law enforcement to community assistance, guidance and leadership. Some priorities include:

• road safety
• preventing and reducing the overall incidence of crime by working with the local community, businesses, families, young people and other groups so that people feel safe in their homes and safe going about their daily activities.

Activities

In connection with crime, day-to-day police may be involved in:

• policing laws and regulations
• investigating crime and giving evidence before the courts
• investigating accidents and death if people die other than by natural causes
• searching for missing people, escapees and absconders
• supervising people in police custody
• mediating in domestic disputes, such as those between family members, friends and neighbours
• keeping the peace at demonstrations and sporting events.