Armed officers to bolster security at Melbourne hospitals under opposition proposal

The Liberal-National Coalition has announced plans to deploy 70 Protective Services Officers (PSOs) in seven major Victorian hospitals under a two-year pilot program for the upcoming election. The opposition, led by Jess Wilson, has criticized the plan, emphasizing the government's focus on investing in healthcare workers. The opposition's proposal includes armed law enforcement officers to bolster security in major hospitals and address violent incidents.

The PSOs would work alongside existing security personnel, providing visible deterrence and assisting in guarding prisoners. The opposition argues that the trial will help understand how to best protect hospitals and ensure patient and clinician safety. In the 2024-2025 financial year, there were nearly 24,000 violent incidents recorded across Victoria's public healthcare services.

PSOs have been in place since 2011, primarily focused on enhancing safety at railway stations, with limited jurisdiction to apprehend, arrest, search, and fine individuals in designated public transport areas. The opposition's proposal has drawn criticism from Minister for Medical Research Anthony Carbines, who believes the opposition is more focused on law and order in healthcare rather than investing in nurses and other health workers.