PSOs given tougher powers as new laws passed in Parliament

PROTECTIVE Services Officers have been given more powers to help stop crimes across Melbourne’s transport network—including the power to arrest people who have breached parole.

Protective Services Officers (PSOs) have been given more powers to help clamp down on anti-social crime across the transport network. Picture: Stuart Milligan

PROTECTIVE Services Officers (PSOs) have been given more powers to help clamp down on anti-social crime across the transport network.

Under the new laws, which came into force on Tuesday, transit PSO powers have been expanded so they can arrest someone who has breached their parole.

The new powers will also allow PSOs to carry out searches for illicit drugs as well as request names and addresses from people who witness crimes.

PSOs will also be able to respond to incidents in and around the train station they are patrolling.

These reforms are part of the government’s $2 billion Community Safety Statement, which includes funding for an extra 100 mobile PSOs who will be rolled out across the public transport network.

New regulations will support the mobile teams and will allow PSOs to tackle crime hot spots and work across the Melbourne transport network — including on trams, at transport hubs and on buses.

PSOs have issued more than 78,000 infringements since they were first deployed in 2012.

They patrol 216 train stations across the state, including four regional stations.

Police Minister Lisa Neville said: “PSOs are a welcome sight at train stations across Melbourne. “These new powers will ensure PSOs are in the best position to protect and serve the community right across the network.”

@davidhurleyHS