Much of the Queensland Budget commitment to policing will go towards equipment aimed at de-escalation and safety. Photo: Queensland Police Service Recruiting.
The Crisafulli Government in Queensland has earmarked a large investment into the police service in its first State Budget.
Largely elected on a “law and order” agenda, the LNP government has already enhanced police powers, and in its first budget has announced a $147.9 million investment in equipment for frontline officers.
The aim of the funding and the items provided is to drive down crime and restore community safety.
The allocation includes:
- $41.5m for replacement of body cameras
- $47.7m for 6546 Taser 10s
- $29.9m to replace Integrated Load-Bearing Vests, including ballistic plates, for the officers’ protection.
- $6.1m to replace roadside breath-test kits.
- $5.6m for tactical first-aid kits.
- $4.6m to buy 1623 tyre-deflation devices.
- $8.9m for handheld radios.
The funding is intended to address equipment shortages that the LNP blames on the former Miles Labor government.
“This is another important step to restoring safety where you live and supporting our police on the frontline,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“Paired with our Making Queensland Safer Laws, this investment will ensure police have the resources they need to arrest Labor’s youth crime crisis.
“Our police can now set off to work each day knowing they have the equipment they need to protect themselves and protect the community.”
The Premier’s comments were echoed by Treasurer David Janetzki.
“We promised a fresh start for Queensland and that’s exactly what this Budget will deliver,” Mr Janetzki said.
“We must turn the tide on crime, and that’s why this Budget is investing in our police so they have the resources they need to make Queensland safer.”
The government emphasised the new equipment’s safety benefits and ability to de-escalate conflict.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said: “We are proud to be able to not only provide the basics like portable radios and body-worn cameras but also significantly upgraded equipment which will increase their safety, like Integrated Load-Bearing Vests and tactical first-aid kits.
“The Taser 10s are a very exciting piece of equipment, which will revolutionise the way our frontline officers can de-escalate conflicts without lethal force.”
