Released 21/05/2020
New laws have been passed in the ACT Legislative Assembly today to help better protect police, firefighters, paramedics, emergency services staff and corrections workers on the job.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Mick Gentleman said these frontline workers provide critical services for the ACT and violence against them would not be tolerated.
“The current global COVID-19 public health crisis underscores integral role of these frontline workers and support for these workers during these challenging times is crucial”, Minister Gentleman said.
“The Crimes (Protection of Frontline Community Service Providers) Amendment Act 2020 creates a new offence for assaults against police and other frontline workers, including firefighters, paramedics, emergency service employees and volunteers and corrections workers.
“This new legislation sends a clear message to anyone who would act violently towards these workers that there will be severe consequences that will remain on their criminal records.
“We’re committed to protecting frontline workers so they can help keep our community safe without risk of violence.
“The Act also creates new driving offences which target driving at police and ramming police vehicles. This will give police an extra deterrent against this highly dangerous conduct.”
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases