Victorian Coalition proposes hospital security pilot

The Victorian Coalition has proposed a two-year pilot program to deploy 70 Protective Services Officers (PSOs) across seven major hospitals if they win the November election. The plan aims to combat rising levels of violence and aggression against healthcare workers, with reports indicating approximately 24,000 to 25,000 incidents of occupational violence occurred during 2024-25, averaging about 65 incidents per day.

The proposed officers would provide a security presence on and around hospital grounds, respond to serious accidents, assist with prisoner guarding, and escort staff to their vehicles. However, the plan has faced criticism regarding a lack of consultation with health facilities. Opposition health spokeswoman Georgie Crozier admitted that only one of the seven targeted hospitals had been consulted so far. Additionally, the plan has not yet been discussed with the Victoria Police Commissioner.

Labor Minister Anthony Carbines questioned the focus on law and order, suggesting that investment should instead prioritize nurses and other healthcare workers. He stated that decisions regarding necessary health services should be based on advice from health professionals rather than the opposition.