VicPD - Public Protests

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Public Protests

Operational Policy Discussion Paper on Public Protests and Demonstrations

This discussion paper is a public document intended to provide the community with an understanding of the operational guidelines which frame the police response to public protests and demonstrations.

Background

Recent events seem to indicate that the Victoria Police Department will be called upon to police an increasing number of protest events and demonstrations. It is expected these demonstrations will relate to a variety of issues including labour relations, government policy, globalization, etc.

Underlying Philosophy

The Victoria Police Department recognizes and supports the right of people to peacefully protest in public. Police attendance at most events will simply provide a presence supporting a peaceful demonstration.

Preparation and Supervision

Where prior notice of a demonstration exists, a written briefing note or plan will be developed for the event. The size of the plan will depend on the anticipated size of the demonstration. Small demonstrations will be monitored by uniformed members and supervisors from the Primary Response Division and the Targeted Policing Division. Large demonstrations will be commanded by an on-scene senior officer (Inspector) of the Victoria Police Department.

Police Intervention

Subject to the on-scene decisions of the officer supervising the demonstration, police intervention is possible in the following situations:

where injury to persons is imminent or is occurring,
where significant damage to property occurs, and,
where there is a deliberate attempt to storm or breach a building or site.

Intervention Capabilities

The Victoria Police Department has available resources which are able to respond to demonstrations or large gatherings. The Crowd Management Unit is a specially trained and equipped group which may be deployed where circumstances make that appropriate.