In an Australian first, Victoria Police has launched a specialist unit to investigate serious cases of family violence involving its employees following the recommendation of the Royal Commission into Family Violence.
The Professional Standards Command will review Victoria Police policies and procedures relating to police employees and family violence and will also investigate cases where the victim is a Victoria Police employee as well as current and historical allegations of sexual assault.
Family violence incidents involving Victoria Police members are treated as complaints against police - which means as well as any criminal investigation - police perpetrators can expect disciplinary proceedings, which could result in dismissal.
The first six investigators began work this month with the remainder beginning in January next year.