In line with our commitment to accountability, Tasmania Police has today published its annual report on complaints against police.
The Professional Standards Complaints and Outcomes 2024 report details the type of complaint, findings and outcomes of Level 2 and 3 complaints made against police in 2024.
In 2024, a total of 194 complaints from members of the public were received, a decrease from 325 in 2023.
A total of 166 internally raised matters were received in 2024, compared with 94 in 2023.
"Tasmania Police already reports annually through the Report on Government Services in terms of complaints against police. Last week we saw Productivity Commission data that reported Tasmania Police to be the most likely to be regarded as professional, to treat people fairly and equally, and be honest, than any other jurisdiction," Deputy Commissioner Jonathan Higgins said.
"Looking at the Professional Standards figures for 2024, I recognise from the thousands of interactions that we have with the community each year, the figure of 194 complaints is comparatively low. But it is vital that all complaints are appropriately responded to, investigated, action taken if required and that we publicly report on these important matters.
"The Tasmanian community has high expectations of its policing service, and we are entrusted with significant powers to perform our duties to keep people safe.
"When a complaint is made, either by a member of the community or raised internally by another police officer, the community must have confidence that these matters are investigated appropriately and outcomes are publicly available," said Deputy Commissioner Higgins.
"The number of internally raised matters reflects the importance of holding ourselves and our colleagues accountable for behaving in line with our values – Accountability, Integrity, Respect and Support. We'll continue to build this culture amongst all officers, just as we will continue to welcome feedback from the community we serve.
"The Tasmania Police Professional Standards Command investigates internal and external complaints of criminal conduct and breaches of the Code of Conduct, with independent oversight of investigations by the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Integrity Commission and the Ombudsman as appropriate, in addition to reporting to the Office of the Independent Regulator.
"Tasmania Police strives for excellence in serving the community. Ongoing reflection and improvement and is important, and in many cases, the response to a complaint or feedback will include an opportunity for professional development or learning through verbal guidance to staff."
Members of the community can provide feedback or compliments on Tasmania Police's performance at any time via the Tasmania Police website. Go to https://www.police.tas.gov.au/about-us/compliments-and-complaints/
The Professional Standards report is available here: https://www.police.tas.gov.au/information-disclosure/
