Tasmanian police mental health leave numbers double in five years

The escalating number of Tasmanian police officers on mental health leave is a deeply concerning trend that demands immediate attention. With 102 officers currently off duty due to psychological injury, and 146 open claims, the figures have doubled in just five years. This situation not only strains the remaining officers but, more importantly, signifies a growing crisis within the force, where individuals are clearly struggling and in need of support. Shane Tilley, president of the Police Association of Tasmania, rightly points out that this is not an isolated issue, but a national problem affecting police services across Australia. The call for "six-to-12-month welfare checks" for officers, while potentially beneficial, highlights the need for robust, funded programs. The fact that mandatory wellbeing screenings recommended by a coroner following the suicides of four officers in 2023 are not being conducted is particularly alarming. This suggests a gap between recommendations and implementation, a gap that could have severe consequences. While Tasmania Police states measures are in place for high-exposure areas, the broader issue requires a top-down, comprehensive approach, as suggested by Professor Alan Beckley. The community's support for welfare checks is crucial in convincing treasury departments to allocate the necessary funding for these vital initiatives. Without it, the mental toll on our officers will continue to rise, impacting both their wellbeing and the effectiveness of the service.

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It is very concerning because not only does it leave those who are behind working to pick up the slack, but it also means that we have a higher number of people who are unwell and who need help.