The ACT is set to address concerns about its low police-to-population ratio by adding 126 new police officers. 

Chief Police Officer Neil Gaughan has been advocating for increased police presence, saying the current ratio of 205 officers per 100,000 people is insufficient. 

The Canberra Liberals and the Australian Federal Police Association have also been pressing for additional police funding, as the ACT has been the lowest-spending jurisdiction in terms of police services.

According to the most recent Productivity Commission report on government services, the ACT spent only $452.67 per person on policing in the 12 months leading up to June 2022, considerably below the national average of $574.57.

To address these concerns, the ACT government has allocated its largest-ever investment in ACT Policing, with $107 million over five years. 

The funding includes support for an additional annual recruitment course. 

The newly-appointed officers will be deployed across Canberra, focusing on expanding areas such as Molonglo, which is projected to nearly double its population by 2028. A feasibility study will determine whether a police station is necessary in Molonglo, taking into account the mobile nature of policing in the geographically compact city of Canberra.

“If we can get down and interact in the community the way we see the police service model operating in other jurisdictions, it will mean we will see less crime, less opportunity for those people to enter the criminal justice system,” said Police Minister Mick Gentleman.

In addition to addressing staffing needs, the funding is set to enhance the safety and security of police officers and detainees at the watch house. 

It will also enable the continuation of the Police Ambulance and Clinician Early Response (PACER) team, ensuring a more vigilant and responsive approach to mental health support.

However, the Australian Federal Police Association (AFPA) believes the funding boost falls short of what is required. 

AFPA President Alex Caruana stressed the need for 250 to 300 new officers, with 100 officers per year for the first two years, in order to catch up with other jurisdictions. 

Caruana also expressed concerns about overcrowding at the Gungahlin Joint Emergency Services Centre, urging urgent action from the ACT government.

ACT Chief Police Officer Neil Gaughan supports the funding increase and favours a gradual recruitment process. 

He has acknowledged the challenges of integrating a large number of officers quickly into a small police force and highlighted the importance of ensuring professionalism and thorough training.