Giving police on the beat the tools and powers they need to keep Tasmanians safe is a feature of the Tasmanian Government's 2025-26 Budget, with $1.7 billion invested over the next four years.
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management, Felix Ellis, said this huge investment in community safety shows that the Tasmanian Government isn't just talking tough on crime, but is acting on it.
"The 2025-26 Budget will continue to address the key concerns of Tasmanians as we deliver on our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future," Minister Ellis said.
"Tasmania is already leading the charge when it comes to recruiting police on the beat, and the Government has increased police numbers by 61 officers over the last 12 months alone.
"But we also recognise that in addition to boosting police numbers, we need to give them the powers and tools they need to protect Tasmanians.
"We've already taken strong action with new laws to crack down on knife crime and pump the breaks on hoons. We've also adopted life-saving reforms to introduce wanding, taking more dangerous weapons off the streets.
"The 2025-26 Budget goes further, this year investing in a 12-month trial of tasers for frontline officers, providing greater safety in high-risk situations – bringing Tasmania in line with all other Australian jurisdictions.
"The trial will commence on 1 July – with up to 50 frontline officers to be trained in their use.
"The Budget will also secure the permanent roll out of metal detection wands across the state, as well as body worn cameras and protection vests.
"By investing in the resources Police need to keep Tasmanians safe, we are building a better Tasmania: now, and for the future.
"Our police on the beat put their lives on the line every day they go to work, and these investments will give them greater confidence to go about their day – and keep Tasmanians safe."
The 2025-26 Budget will also see a significant investment in support for the health, safety, and wellbeing of those who serve our community.
The Tasmanian Government recognises that the environment our Police work in often comes with dangerous and confronting situations.
"This Budget gets the balance right, supporting our Police both on and off the beat."
