This week marks a pivotal moment for federal police officers across the nation as they exercise their right to vote to take industrial action in a bid for improved pay and working conditions.
This vote, facilitated by the Fair Work Commission, signals a historic juncture for the Australian Federal Police (AFP) force, as it is the first time such a step has been taken in recent times on a federal level.
It is important to highlight that a successful ballot does not mean police officers will go on strike. Regardless of the outcome, the AFP will continue to show up to work and protect Australians. Public safety will not be jeopardised under any circumstances. However, officers will take other actions to demonstrate to the government that they no longer accept their position as the lowest base-paid police force in Australia.
The decision to pursue a protected action ballot stems from the constrictive nature of the government’s Public Sector Workplace Relations Policy 2023 and the rigid non-APS bargaining parameters. This policy is a clear indication that the government and the Australian Public Service Commission (APSC) don’t understand policing and operational activity. It’s a testament to the resolve of our officers who refuse to accept inadequate staffing levels that jeopardise both their safety and the efficiency of their duties.
Our recent survey results paint a stark picture: a mere 7.79% of respondents feel adequately staffed to handle the pressures of their workload at the beginning of a shift. Even more alarming is the fact that a staggering 78.85% have contemplated leaving the AFP within the past year due to these untenable conditions. These statistics are not just numbers; they represent the tangible strain felt by our officers on the front lines every single day.
Australia and the AFP cannot afford to lose nearly 24,000 years of experience if these officers and staff leave the organisation. These are the same officers and staff who protect the very people denying them a fair pay rise. These officers guard critical defence establishments such as Pine Gap and the Harold E Holt Naval Communications Station in Exmouth and will have a large protective role with AUKUS.
These members protect your child from online child exploitation and also stop illicit substances from arriving on our shores and ravaging our communities. In 2021-22, more than 24 tonnes of illicit substances and precursors were seized with by, or with the assistance of the AFP.
The AFPA welcomes the Fair Work Commission’s decision to greenlight this crucial ballot. It underscores our commitment to achieving a fair and equitable enterprise agreement (EA) for AFP appointees. This ballot will empower our members to potentially pursue industrial action if necessary, ensuring their voices are heard amidst the bureaucratic red tape.
Our relationship with the AFP EA bargaining team remains constructive, characterised by open dialogue and mutual respect. However, we cannot ignore the stark reality imposed by the government’s rigid policies.
While the AFP strives to reward its appointees, the shackles of a predetermined 11.2% pay rise over three years, devoid of any new allowances, severely limit their ability to do so.
It is disheartening to witness a disconnection between policymakers and the operational realities faced by our officers. The notion that the same individuals who safeguard our communities and protect our leaders are not worthy of more than a blanket pay rise is not just misguided — it’s downright insulting.
AFP appointees deserve more than token gestures; they deserve recognition equal to the invaluable service they provide. Unlike other commonwealth employees, our officers cannot combat child exploitation or counterterrorism from the comfort of a home office. Their work demands a level of commitment and sacrifice that must be duly acknowledged and compensated.
The overwhelming support for industrial action among our membership speaks volumes. It reflects a collective resolve to secure a better future for AFP appointees and safeguard the integrity of our institution. We urge the government to heed our call, to recognise the invaluable contributions of our officers, and to engage in meaningful dialogue that honours their service.
In the end, this fight is not just about pay and conditions; it’s about the fundamental respect owed to those who dedicate their lives to serving and protecting our nation.
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