Deputy Premier and Minister for Police Peter Ryan today told Parliament, Victoria Police had committed to maintain all 99 one officer police stations across Victoria.

“The operational decision announced today by the Chief Commissioner is great news and the Victorian Coalition Government wholeheartedly supports it,” Mr Ryan said.

The announcement by Victoria Police follows an internal review to determine the future of eight stations that are currently empty.

“Victoria Police acknowledges that one member stations are a key component and essential fabric of local communities,” Mr Ryan said.

“The commitment to maintain one member police stations does not come without challenges. Recruiting police to some stations has been problematic and the Coalition Government will continue supporting Victoria Police as it identifies the right officers to fill these positions.

“While recruitment processes are underway, officers from other nearby stations will continue to provide policing services to these communities.”

Mr Ryan said Victoria Police had a long and proud history of local policing and officers understanding and working closely with the country communities they served.

“A police presence makes people feel safe. Police are an integral part of the community, especially in small townships,” Mr Ryan said.

“The Coalition Government has always been aware of the importance of one officer police stations and we are committed to resourcing Victoria Police to ensure they remain, especially in communities where there are no alternative policing services.

“The Victorian Coalition Government is proud to be delivering the largest ever boost to frontline police resources. We are investing $602 million to support the roll-out of 1,700 new frontline police to be allocated across Victoria, 850 of which will be allocated by the end of June this year.

“The 2012-13 Victorian Budget also includes $56 million to upgrade or refurbish police stations and build new police stations across Victoria.”