von A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to support Defence Reservists who are employed with the Western Australia Police will be signed with the Australian Defence Force (ADF) today (10 November 2010) at 10am at Leeuwin Barracks, East Fremantle.
Western Australia Police, represented by Commissioner Karl O’Callaghan APM, will join with the Head of Defence’s Cadet, Reserve and Employer Support Division Major General Greg Melick to sign the MOU.
Major General Melick said the MOU aimed to create a mutually understood approach and better management of a shared workforce.
“Reservists bring valuable life and work skills back to their civilian workplaces and that includes our nation’s emergency services,” said Major General Melick.
“The WA Police have been particularly supportive and provided a Military Police detachment to Operation ASTUTE in Timor Leste last year, which was given a Commendation from the Commander of the International Stabilisation Force for their outstanding performance.”
Western Australia Police has around 5800 police officers and 2100 police staff, some of whom are also Reservists.
Commissioner Karl O’Callaghan said Reservists and police personnel shared similar skill requirements, including high-level decision-making and team-work.
“Reservists can learn a range of skills which can be transferred to their daily role in WA Police – it’s a great foundation in terms of team work, discipline and leadership.”
The signing in WA follows previous agreements in Tasmania, New South Wales and South Australia.
Press release
Ministerial Support and Public Affairs,
Department of Defence,
Canberra, Australia
