The Independent Broad-Based Anti-Corruption Commission (IBAC) report into Operation Dawson is an alarming wake-up call for the Andrews Labor Government.
The depth of then Superintendent Paul Rosenblum's misconduct - accessing information from the Law Enforcement Assistance Program (LEAP) database - is particularly concerning, given Mr Rosenblum was the person responsible with providing Victoria Police with policy guidance and advice on information security.
Mr Rosenblum displayed an appalling lack of judgment in accessing LEAP for improper reasons and using his seniority to involve himself in the investigations.
The community rightly expects Victoria Police to maintain confidentiality of information at all times, in a manner that is consistent with best-practice approach to information security.
That such an egregious failure has occurred, when IBAC has consistently warned the Andrews Labor Government of systemic vulnerabilities regarding information breaches and complaints handling for a number of years, is alarming and one that requires clear action.
A Liberal Nationals Government will work with Victoria Police and The Police Association to ensure IBAC's recommendations are implemented in full, including amending section 226 of the Victoria Police Act 2013 (Vic) to provide a clear obligation for police personnel to only access information that is directly related to their current duties or functions. This clear legislative requirement will provide certainty as to the limits of authority relating to accessing certain information.
Daniel Andrews now has a clear choice; accept IBAC's recommendations in full or continue to turn a blind eye to behaviour that risks putting Victorians in harm's way.
