March 2002 Volume 83 Number 3 "serving the protectors"

Resignation rate continues to be a problem

It seems the place for 30- and 40-year police careers now lies only in the past. Such entire-working-life terms were, through last century, common among our members. But figures show that police officers now separate after 12 years (males) and seven years (females) – on average.

One must, of course, accept that times – and expectations – have changed. High rates of experience-draining attrition, however, are of serious concern.

We must look to halt the early-separation phenomenon through examination of its causes, and provide incentives for officers to remain in the job.

We must not only maintain the improved salary structure – achieved in recent years – but also bring about, among other things:

• Better career paths.

• Career breaks.

• Family-friendly policies.

Also vital are a new approach to police superannuation and the introduction of a 20-year scheme, such as that which exists in England and the USA.

The Police Federation of Australia has begun to negotiate with the federal government on these initiatives. Similar negotiations with state governments will follow.

I invite Police Association members to express their views to delegates, or branch or full-time PASA officials on this compelling issue.

PETER ALEXANDER
PRESIDENT

peteralexander@pasa.asn.au

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