Werribee police station will be rebuilt as part of a $2 billion state government package to help police resources keep up with population growth.
The four-year plan will also include the recruitment of more than 2250 new police officers statewide.
Police minister Lisa Neville announced the investment during a press conference in Melbourne this morning.
She said there had been “incredible pressure” on police in growth corridors and many communities were left fearful and concerned.
“We have seen a crime rise, and seen a need to deliver more [police resources],” Ms Neville said.
“This is about starting the process of turning that around and supporting growing communities in Victoria.”
Police Association figures reveal that Wyndham currently has 45 police for every 100,000 residents, compared with a state average of 102 officers for every 100,000 residents.
The Association has said the region will need another 159 officers in the next five years to reach and maintain the current Victorian ratio.
Earlier this year, Ms Neville guaranteed that growth areas such as Wyndham would see additional police on the beat by as soon as February next year.
Today she said a new allocation model had been finalised, which will provide a clear understanding of where frontline police are needed and also help forecast future needs.
Chief commissioner Graham Ashton said police resources in western outer growth corridors such as Wyndham had been “well and truly stretched” and he believes the new model will help combat that.
Police Association secretary Ron Iddles welcomed the announcement.
“Today is a historic event,” he said. “Never in the history of Victoria Police have we seen such an injection.”
Mr Iddles said the boost in police investment was the result of Victoria Police, the state government, and the Police Association working together for a safer community.
More to come.
