🛑 WA Police Union’s concerns
The union says experienced officers are leaving while violent crime is rising, showing the force is not being adequately supported.
Police-to-population ratio has dropped nearly 7% since 2007–08.
Violent offences (offences against the person) have increased by over 80% in the same period.
Resignations remain historically high, with the post‑2020 period being the worst since the 1940s.
Medical retirements have surged in the past six months, many linked to psychological injuries.
The force is becoming less experienced: constables/probationary constables rose from 14.2% (2018–19) to 24.7% (2024–25).
Auxiliary officer attrition is extremely high—more than two in five left in 2024–25.
The union argues frontline capacity is shrinking while community demand is growing.
📢 Union’s call to action
The WA Government should fund more police, improve retention, and address workload and support issues.
Without investment, the gap between community expectations and policing capability will widen.
🟦 WA Government’s response
The government says police numbers are increasing, not falling.
Claims:
Over 7,300 officers, a 10% increase since COVID.
900 more officers than in 2017.
Overall crime rate down 16% since 2017.
WA is the only state still growing its police force.
Attrition and resignations are dropping year‑on‑year.
Government says all districts are appropriately resourced and can adjust to demand.
🏛 Local MPs’ comments
MPs Terry Healy and Colleen Egan say the government is investing heavily in policing, including:
$8 billion in the last budget.
Longer opening hours at Canning Vale and Gosnells stations.
Technology upgrades like body‑worn cameras.
Emphasis on visible policing, youth engagement, and local support services.
🚓 WA Police Force statement
Police say they maintain a proactive, visible presence 24/7.
They emphasise agility in reallocating resources to meet operational needs.
📈 Broader context
Parliamentary reports show rising demand for police services, especially:
Family violence cases
General calls for assistance
Additional staff have been funded to keep frontline officers available by shifting some tasks to specialised roles.
In short
The union argues WA policing is under-resourced and losing experience at a dangerous time, while the government insists officer numbers, investment, and capability are all increasing. The debate centres on whether current staffing and support are keeping pace with rising demand and crime trends.