The ACT’s police, firefighters, paramedics, emergency services staff and corrections workers are now better protected on the job following the passage of new laws in the Legislative Assembly last week.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Mick Gentleman said the Crimes (Protection of Frontline Community Service Providers) Amendment Act 2020 created a new offence for assaults against frontline workers, including emergency service volunteers.
“The current global COVID-19 public health crisis underscores the integral role of these frontline workers and support for these workers during these challenging times is crucial,” Mr Gentleman said.
“This new legislation sends a clear message to anyone who would act violently towards these workers that there will be severe consequences that will remain on their criminal records,” he said.
“We’re committed to protecting frontline workers so they can help keep our community safe without risk of violence.”
Mr Gentleman said frontline workers provided critical services for the ACT and violence against them would not be tolerated.
He said the Act also created new driving offences which targeted driving at police and ramming police vehicles.
“This will give police an extra deterrent against this highly dangerous conduct,” he said.
