Australian Federal Police Association

The wheels are rolling this morning from the iconic Australian War Memorial as the incredible Tour de Cure officially gets underway. The Australian Federal Police Association is proud to be sponsoring two of our own, Hannah and Jez, as they take on the challenge, riding hundreds of kilometres to raise vital funds for cancer research, prevention and support services. It’s an inspiring start to the day in Canberra, with riders, supporters and the community coming together for a cause that touches so many Australian families. Hannah and Jez are not only representing the AFPA and AFP family on the road, but they’re also helping drive real change in the fight against cancer. Good luck to all the riders taking part, and especially to Hannah and Jez. The AFPA and AFP community are right behind you.

We’re proud to share that the AFPA is sponsoring two dedicated members in the upcoming Tour de Cure - Jeremy 'Jez' and Hannah Hickson. We wouldn’t expect anything less from these two dedicated members of the AFP and AFPA, and it shows how their commitment to serving our community goes well beyond the badge. Now it’s our turn to step up. We know our community will rally behind them and show the same strength and generosity they demonstrate every day. If you’re able, please consider making a donation to support their ride and this important cause. Every contribution makes a difference, and together we can pedal towards a future free of cancer! 💙 signaturetourdecure.com.au/hannah-hickson signaturetourdecure.com.au/jeremy-hickson

Today, Australians come together to reflect on our history, celebrate our achievements, and look to the future with optimism. While many in our community are enjoying time with family and friends, members of the Australian Federal Police are hard at work across the country safeguarding events, supporting our partners, and keeping our community safe. We thank our officers, protective service officers, unsworn and operational staff and support teams for their ongoing dedication and professionalism. Their work often goes unseen, but its impact is felt every day. Wishing everyone a safe and reflective Australia Day.

National Day of Mourning – 22 January 2026 Today, we pause to remember the 15 innocent lives tragically lost in the Bondi Beach terrorist attack on 14 December 2025. As members of Australia’s policing community, we honour the victims, support their families and stand with all those affected by this senseless act of violence. We also reflect on the dedication of the first responders and law enforcement officers who acted with courage and professionalism in the face of danger. Their service reminds us of the critical role policing plays in protecting our communities. On this National Day of Mourning, we encourage all Australians to: - Observing a minute of silence at 7:01pm AEDT - Supporting those impacted by the tragedy - Fostering compassion, unity, and resilience in our communities May we never forget the lives lost, and may we continue to work together to keep Australians safe.

City Police Station Evacuated and Shut Down Again Following Hazmat Alarm The Australian Federal Police Association (AFPA) has been advised that Canberra’s City Police Station has again been evacuated and shut down following a hazardous materials (hazmat) alarm this afternoon. Emergency services were called to the station after a refrigerant gas alarm was triggered, with ACT Fire and Rescue and specialist hazmat crews responding in line with standard safety procedures. As a precaution, areas inside the building were evacuated and all police officers and staff were removed from the station. ACT Emergency Services Agency has confirmed firefighters attended the scene to investigate whether there was a gas leak, with hazmat crews and breathing apparatus support deployed. The alarm is understood to have been activated within the watch house area of the building. AFPA President Alex Caruana said repeated evacuations and safety incidents at City Police Station continue to be deeply concerning. “Our members have the right to work in facilities that are safe and fit for purpose. "Once again, police officers have been forced out of their workplace due to a potential hazmat issue. This disrupts policing operations and, more importantly, raises serious questions about ongoing infrastructure and safety at the City Police Station," Mr Caruana said. The AFPA acknowledges the swift response by other emergency services but stresses that repeated incidents place unnecessary strain on police and emergency responders alike. Mr Caruana said police officers should not be routinely exposed to situations where police station alarms are triggered and their stations must be evacuated. "We will be seeking assurances from the ACT Government, as they are the owners of the building, that the cause of this incident is fully investigated and that steps are taken to prevent a recurrence. "The AFPA urges the ACT Government to prioritise the health and safety of police personnel and ensure any identified faults are urgently rectified and bring forward the timeline for a new City Police Station," Mr Caruana said.

Happy New Year from the AFPA! As we welcome 2026, the Australian Federal Police Association extends our heartfelt best wishes to everyone for a year ahead brimming with safety, success, and unity. To our dedicated members, fellow police officers, and staff across the nation who are steadfastly holding the line, patrolling our streets, airports, vital sites, and borders, your tireless vigilance ensures that millions can celebrate with true safety and freedom. Thank you for your unwavering professionalism and resolute commitment. If the festivities bring challenges or you need support, remember: the AFPA is here around the clock, every day of the year. Travel safely, look out for one another, and let’s build an even stronger Australia together in 2026.

Police officers in Australia, including AFP appointees, are asked to confront trauma, violence and risk in the service of the community, yet they are not supported in the same way as military personnel who hold a Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) White Card. When the job leaves lasting physical or psychological harm, police are pushed into complex workers’ compensation systems that demand proof, paperwork and persistence at the worst possible time. There is no equivalent White Card for police officers, no simple, guaranteed pathway to care, and no recognition that the injuries of policing often follow long after the uniform comes off. The Australian Federal Police Association (AFPA) continues to campaign strongly for an AFP Blue Card, modelled directly on the DVA White Card, to provide similar non-liability access to mental health treatment and other wellbeing benefits for current and former operational AFP appointees. This has been a key priority in our 2022 and 2025 federal election manifesto and ongoing advocacy; however, it has not yet been introduced by the government. Unfortunately, this leaves AFP appointees and police officers across the country reliant on workers' compensation (e.g., Comcare), employer programs, and association/union assistance, which are more claim-based, adversarial, and limited compared to veteran entitlements. Veterans receive a dedicated, government-backed system that recognises the long-term impacts of service. Police officers get nothing, and they deserve the same recognition for the risks they face daily. As a quick comparison: DVA White Card Holders (Veterans): •Free treatment for accepted service-related medical conditions, including consultations with doctors and specialists. Provided through the DVA. •Access to Non-Liability Health Care for mental health, cancer (including malignant neoplasm) or pulmonary tuberculosis without the need to prove the condition was caused by service. Provided through the DVA. •Access to allied health services such as physiotherapy, pathology, diagnostic imaging and community nursing. Provided through the DVA. •Subsidised or no-cost pharmaceuticals under the Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, with concessional pricing until the Safety Net is reached. Provided through the DVA. •Dental and optical treatment related to accepted conditions where the provider accepts the White Card. Provided through the DVA. •Access to aids, equipment, assistive devices and home modifications where there is a clinical need. Provided through the DVA. •Travel to and from medical appointments, or reimbursement of travel costs, when the travel relates to treatment for accepted conditions. Provided through the DVA. •Counselling and mental health support through Open Arms and other DVA-funded programs. Provided through the DVA. •Access to support services such as Veterans’ Home Care, subject to assessment and eligibility. Provided through the DVA. •Vehicle registration discounts or exemptions in some states and territories. •Public transport concessions or free travel on specific days in some jurisdictions. •Fishing licence fee waivers and recreational licence concessions in some states. •Utility rebates and concessions for water, energy and council rates, depending on state schemes and eligibility rules. •Ambulance cover or subsidised emergency transport in states that extend this benefit to veterans. •Access to hearing services vouchers through national programs when combined with recognised veteran status. AFP Appointees and Police Officers: These benefits are tied to employment and workers’ compensation claims. They cover work-related injuries and illnesses, including medical and rehabilitation costs, wage replacement, and limited mental health support through employee assistance programs or association and union welfare schemes. Access depends on proving the injury or illness was caused by work. This creates a higher administrative burden, more disputes, and delays. It does not provide broad, lifelong or non-liability coverage. That must change. In 2026, the Federal Government has a clear choice to make. Stand with the police officers who stand for Australia. Commit to a practical, compassionate reform by trialling an AFP Blue Card for all operational AFP and ACT Policing appointees. A Blue Card would deliver early access to care, cut red tape, and recognise that the harms of policing are real and often cumulative. This is the moment to act and support those who protect the community.

BONDI TERRORIST INCIDENT REVIEW TO NARROW IN FOCUS TO IDENTIFY REAL ISSUES The Australian Federal Police Association (AFPA) has today expressed concern regarding the recently reported terms of reference for the Independent Commonwealth Review into the Bondi terrorist attack. The Association warns that the current scope is far too narrow and fails to address the systemic "resource crisis" facing federal law enforcement and national security agencies. Based on media reporting of the Richardson Review, the AFPA believes the investigation focuses almost exclusively on information sharing and operational timelines, while ignoring the underlying issues of funding, staffing levels, and physical resources. AFPA President Alex Caruana stated that while a review is necessary, looking only at "who knew what and when" is a surface-level approach that ignores why gaps in national security exist in the first place. “The reported terms of reference for this review are, quite frankly, concerning. If we only look at information flow without looking at the hands on the ground to process that information, we are failing the Australian public. “Our members are being stretched to the breaking point, and a review that doesn't account for the chronic under funding and under resourcing of Australia’s national security workforce, such as ASIO and the AFP is a missed opportunity for real reform,” Mr Caruana said. The AFPA is calling for the review to be expanded to include a comprehensive audit of resource levels and allocation alongside an assessment of funding sustainability. This audit should specifically examine the staff levels and structure of the AFP’s National Security framework to ensure adequate resources are in place to protect Australia. Furthermore, it should evaluate whether frontline officers possess the equipment and technological support necessary to monitor and disrupt threats effectively, while also addressing the long-term viability of the current funding model in response to evolving domestic terror threats. The AFPA maintains that if the current independent review is unable or unwilling to investigate the financial and structural health of the AFP and greater national security environment, then a higher level of inquiry is required. AFPA President Alex Caruana said if a Royal Commission is what it takes to get an honest, transparent look at the lack of resources, funding and staff currently hampering our national security efforts, then the AFPA fully supports a Royal Commission. “We cannot keep asking AFP members to do more with less while the threat landscape becomes more complex. “The families of the Bondi victims and the wider community deserve to know if these agencies have the actual 'tools in the shed' to do the job they are tasked with,” Mr Caruana said. Media Contact: AFPA Media and Government Relations Manager Troy Roberts, (02) 6285 1677, troy.r@afpa.org.au

For many of our AFPA and AFP members, this period is not a break. Policing, border protection and national security continue around the clock. It never stops. If you are working through Twixmas, thank you. Your service keeps the community safe when others switch off. If you need advice about pay, leave, allowances or recalls during this period, contact the AFPA. We are here to support you.

From all of us at the Australian Federal Police Association, we wish you and your loved ones a happy, safe, and joyful Christmas Day filled with peace, laughter, and cherished moments. To our dedicated members and their families who are working today, keeping our communities protected over the holidays, a heartfelt thank you for your unwavering commitment and sacrifice. Remember, the AFPA team is always here for you with support and assistance available 24/7. Stay safe, enjoy the day, and here's to a brighter 2026! #MerryChristmas #ThankYouAFP #AFPA

The Australian Federal Police Association (AFPA) extends its deepest respect and solidarity to our NSW Police colleagues following the horrific terrorist shooting attack at Bondi Beach on 14 December 2025, during a community Hanukkah celebration. Our members, like many across the policing community, have expressed profound admiration and respect via social media for the selfless and heroic actions of NSW Police officers who protected the public, confronted the armed attackers, and brought the violence to an end. The men and women of the NSW Police Force can stand tall with pride for their conduct in this chaotic and unprecedented terrorist incident. They embodied the highest ideals of duty and courage, providing an inspiring example to police nationwide—one that leaves us all deeply grateful. In the days since this tragedy, the policing community has had time to reflect on the events: the rapid and brave response under extreme threat, the lives saved through decisive action, and the ongoing challenges in preparing for and responding to such acts of targeted violence. These reflections only strengthen our resolve to support one another and honour the sacrifices made. We acknowledge the significant emotional and physical impact of such trauma on those involved, and we extend our heartfelt thanks and continued support to all affected officers. In particular, we recognise Probationary Constable Jack Hibbert, a 22-year-old officer in the force for only a few months, who was shot in the head and shoulder while dragging members of the public to safety. He has tragically lost vision in one eye, remains in a serious but stable condition, and faces a long recovery, yet has shown remarkable positivity. We also recognise Constable Scott Dyson, who served in the eastern suburbs and was one of the first on the scene. He sustained serious gunshot wounds to the shoulder and stomach, has undergone multiple surgeries, and continues in a serious but stable condition with a challenging recovery ahead. We wish both officers strength and the very best in their rehabilitation. Support appeals have been established through NSW Police Legacy and have received overwhelming community backing: Constable Scott Dyson: policelegacynsw.org.au/scott-dyson-ap… Probationary Constable Jack Hibbert: policelegacynsw.org.au/jack-hibbert-a… We further commend the outstanding efforts of other first responders, including paramedics, medical teams, and courageous civilians, who acted with extraordinary bravery in horrific circumstances. Our thoughts remain with the victims, their families, and loved ones as they grieve and endure the profound aftermath of this devastating act of terrorism.

AFPA ACKNOWLEDGES ANNOUNCEMENT OF GOVERNMENT REVIEW INTO BONDI TERRORIST ATTACK The Australian Federal Police Association acknowledges the Prime Minister’s announcement of an independent review, to be led by Mr Dennis Richardson AC, into the response of federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies to the Bondi terrorist attack. The AFPA recognises Mr Richardson’s deep experience in national security, including his former roles as Director General of ASIO and Secretary of the Department of Defence. AFPA President Alex Caruana said the value of the review will rest on the scope of its Terms of Reference. “The AFPA calls for Terms of Reference that allow proper scrutiny of information sharing and coordination, including who knew what, as well as the resourcing, funding and capability of both the AFP and ASIO. “A narrow review focused only on intelligence handling will miss the wider issues. The inquiry must assess funding, staffing levels, experience and workload across the entire counter terrorism portfolio. It must also examine critical support areas such as surveillance, cyber capabilities and specialist operations. “Only a comprehensive review will identify the systemic improvements needed to keep Australians safe in an elevated threat environment.” Mr Caruana said. The AFPA believes the AFP is operating under significant strain, with shortages in funding and specialist roles that directly affect the organisations ability to disrupt threats. Mr Caruana said AFP appointees put themselves in harm’s way every day and they deserve the resources and sup0port needed to do their jobs properly. “The Government has a responsibility to ensure the AFP has the workforce, resources and capability to meet its mission. "With the constantly shifting staff to priority areas within the AFP may address short-term needs, it comes at the cost of leaving other critical functions understaffed and under-resourced," Mr Caruana said. The AFPA strongly believes that genuine accountability is essential. Mr Caruana said where the review identifies shortcomings, whether in processes, decision-making, or resourcing, it must be empowered to make clear findings and recommendations that lead to meaningful and timely change. "Also, a review of this importance cannot be allowed to gather dust on a Minister’s desk for over two years, as occurred with the Final Report of the Review into Public Sector Board Appointments Processes. “It is now up to the government to set Terms of Reference that allow a full and frank examination of these issues. Anything less would be a missed opportunity to strengthen national security. "If the Government later determines these matters require escalation to a Royal Commission, that decision rests with the Prime Minister,” Mr Caruana said. The AFPA looks forward to the release of the Terms of Reference and stands ready to contribute its members' frontline perspective to the review process. Media Contact AFPA Media and Government Relations Manager Troy Roberts, (02) 6285 1677, troy.r@afpa.org.au

AFPA WELCOMES ADDITIONAL FUNDING FOR AFP NATIONAL SECURITY INVESTIGATIONS The Australian Federal Police Association (AFPA) acknowledges and appreciates the announcement by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Minister for Home Affairs Tony Burke of additional funding for the Australian Federal Police (AFP) to bolster its National Security Investigations (NSI) capabilities. This investment recognises the critical role AFP appointees, many of whom are AFPA members, play in protecting Australia's national security and social cohesion at a time of evolving threats, including extremism, hate crimes, and behaviours that risk escalating into politically motivated violence. Since the establishment of dedicated NSI teams earlier this year, AFP officers have been at the forefront of coordinated, intelligence-led operations to disrupt high-harm activities nationwide. This additional funding will provide essential resources to enhance these efforts, supporting recruitment, training, technology, and operational capacity to keep Australians safe. AFPA President Alex Caruana said AFP appointees work tirelessly, often in challenging and high-risk environments, to safeguard our communities. “This funding boost is a strong vote of confidence in the AFP's vital work and will enable officers to better respond to emerging national security challenges. "While this additional funding is welcome, the AFPA continues to have serious concerns regarding overall staffing levels across the AFP and the welfare support provided to appointees. Chronic shortages and increasing workloads are placing unsustainable pressure on our members, impacting their well-being and operational effectiveness. "We have long advocated for sustainable resourcing to match the demands placed on federal policing, including comprehensive measures to address mental health, fatigue, and retention. Today's announcement is a positive step forward, but more needs to be done to ensure the long-term health and capability of the AFP workforce,” Mr Caruana said. The AFPA looks forward to working constructively with the Government and AFP leadership to ensure this funding delivers meaningful outcomes for frontline officers and the Australian public, while addressing broader resourcing and welfare issues. Media Contact AFPA Media and Government Relations Manager Troy Roberts, (02) 6285 1677, troy.r@afpa.org.au

The Australian Federal Police Association (AFPA) welcomes the strong commitment demonstrated by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and National Cabinet to further strengthen Australia’s firearm laws and improve nationally consistent gun control arrangements. The AFPA strongly supports National Cabinet’s agreement to progress reforms aimed at enhancing community safety and equipping police with stronger preventative tools to mitigate firearm-related risks. In particular, the AFPA welcomes the focus on fast-tracking the establishment of a National Firearms Register, expanding the use of criminal intelligence to inform firearms licensing decisions, limiting the number of firearms an individual may possess, and addressing open-ended licensing and firearm modifications. The AFPA supports consideration of a requirement that firearm licence holders be Australian citizens, noting that robust eligibility standards are a critical safeguard within an effective licensing framework. The AFPA would also like to see further reform of firearm point-of-sale arrangements and the regulation of ammunition, noting that tighter controls at the point of purchase and improved oversight of ammunition supply are critical to preventing diversion and misuse. AFPA President Alex Caruana said the AFPA has long advocated for nationally consistent, intelligence-led firearm regulation and has repeatedly called for the accelerated implementation of the National Firearms Register. “Strong firearm laws save lives. Police know that early intervention through licensing and registration systems is one of the most effective ways to prevent the misuse of firearms. “The AFPA looks forward to working with governments, parliamentarians and relevant agencies to ensure these reforms are implemented effectively and consistently across all jurisdictions," Mr Caruana said.

AFPA STATEMENT ON BONDI BEACH TERROR ATTACK The Australian Federal Police Association (AFPA) expresses profound sorrow over the tragic shooting at Bondi Beach, where 15 innocent lives have been lost. Our deepest sympathies go to the victims, their families, and the communities deeply affected by this appalling act of violence. In the coming days, as the victims' names are released, it is essential to remember them as individuals, beloved family members and contributors to our society, while respecting their cultural traditions and legacies with dignity and empathy. The AFPA offers sincere condolences to the Jewish community during this harrowing period. We stand united with all those impacted, acknowledging the immense grief and fear caused by this event. The AFPA firmly condemns anti-Semitism in every form and rejects any ideology that fosters hatred, division, or violence towards any community. AFPA President Alex Caruana stated that the Bondi tragedy highlights the vulnerability of our communities and the critical need for strengthened national security measures. “Our hearts ache for the victims and their loved ones, and we commit to supporting the healing process in whatever way we can. “We also appreciate the first responders who ran towards danger and the brave civilians who intervened and also provided medical support to victims,” Mr Caruana said. During the last AFP appearance at Senate Estimates, AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett delivered an opening statement: "I could not be any clearer, under my Commissionership, criminal acts that erode the country’s social fabric by advocating hatred, fear, and humiliation will be investigated by very experienced investigators who have world-leading tools and capabilities." The AFPA fully endorses Commissioner Barrett's statement and supports her vision to transform the AFP into a premier national security agency. In her National Press Club address, she further remarked: "This new posture requires the AFP to supercharge our global operations and emphasise that the AFP is a national security agency. The AFP will be unwavering in protecting Australia’s sovereignty." Mr Caruana said that it is time for the Federal Government to fully recognise the AFP as the essential frontline national security agency responsible for safeguarding Australia and its people. “Functions such as efficiency dividends and austerity cuts should not be applied to a frontline national security agency like the AFP, yet the Government continues down this dangerous path. These measures undermine our ability to protect Australians effectively. “The ongoing efficiency dividend alone imposes a significant ongoing reduction on the AFP's operational budget, while reports of potential additional austerity cuts of up to 5 per cent would be devastating, further eroding critical capabilities at a time when threats are escalating. “The AFP should not have imposed initiatives that restrain operational activities. Child exploitation, terrorism, anti-Semitism, people trafficking, transnational crime, foreign interference and cyber-crime are all issues that regularly impact Australia. What would the Federal Government like the AFP to turn off when it can’t fulfil its operational remit due to budget constraints? “To combat events such as the Bondi shooting and the rising anti-Semitic movement, the AFP requires the resources to attract and retain experienced personnel. At present, underfunding, government-imposed budget restraints, and inadequate support structures make this impossible, leaving our officers stretched thin and our nation vulnerable,” Mr Caruana said. The AFPA firmly believes that Australia and its diverse communities cannot wait until mid-2028 to implement the National Firearms Register, which must include tracking of ammunition sales and supply. Mr Caruana said the Federal Government needs to step up and lead this initiative, accelerating its rollout, noting that further delays only increase risks to community and police officer safety. “The AFPA calls on the Federal Government to make immediate and substantial investments in the AFP, eliminate restrictive measures like efficiency dividends and austerity cuts, and ensure the organisation is fully equipped and funded to address emerging threats. “We cannot afford to wait for another tragedy to highlight these failings,” Mr Caruana said.

AFPA WELCOMES LEGISLATION TO REMOVE ‘GOOD CHARACTER’ REFERENCES FOR CHILD SEX OFFENDERS The Australian Federal Police Association (AFPA) strongly welcomes the introduction of legislation by ACT Attorney-General Tara Cheyne that will prevent people convicted of child sexual offences from relying on “good character” statements during sentencing. For too long, courts have been presented with references that emphasise an offender’s otherwise “good character” while downplaying or ignoring the gravity of child sexual abuse. These references have, in some cases, resulted in lenient sentences that fail to reflect community expectations or the lifelong harm to victims. AFPA President Alex Caruana said the reform was a significant and overdue step toward victim-centred justice. “Child sex offenders should not be able to hide behind carefully curated character references that paint them as upstanding members of the community while concealing the predatory behaviour that has devastated young lives. “This change sends a clear message that the exploitation and abuse of children is never mitigated by an offender’s public persona, professional standing, or community contributions,” Mr Caruana said. The AFPA commends Attorney-General Tara Cheyne MLA for her leadership on this issue and for listening to the concerns of police, victim-survivors, advocacy groups and the broader community. The AFPA also acknowledges the work of former ACT Attorney-General Shane Rattenbury, who initiated this reform. In due course, the AFPA would welcome the opportunity to engage with the Attorney-General on expanding these reforms to ensure consistency across other serious offending categories. The AFPA believes the same principle should apply to family and domestic violence offences (including coercive control), non-child sexual assault offences, and recidivist and serial offenders who repeatedly demonstrate contempt for the law and the safety of the community. Mr Caruana said no offender who has engaged in sustained patterns of violence, control, or sexual predation should be afforded the benefit of ‘good character’ references that distort the true nature of their criminality. “The community rightly expects that sentencing reflects the full extent of an offender’s conduct, not a selective and sanitised version presented on their behalf.” “The AFPA stands ready to work constructively with the ACT Government to strengthen these reforms and ensure the justice system consistently prioritises victim safety and community protection,” Mr Caruana said. Media Contact AFPA Media and Government Relations Manager Troy Roberts, (02) 6285 1677, troy.r@afpa.org.au

The Australian Federal Police Association extends its deepest condolences to the victims, their families, and all those affected by the tragic incident in Bondi. Our thoughts are also with the NSW Police, first responders and civilians who acted swiftly and courageously in confronting danger to protect the community. Incidents like this are confronting for everyone, especially those on the frontline, and they underscore the risks our police face every day in the service of public safety. We stand in solidarity with our policing colleagues and the Bondi community during this incredibly difficult time. 🖤

AFPA URGES FIREARM PROHIBITION LAWS IN THE ACT The Australian Federal Police Association (AFPA) calls for stronger firearm prohibition laws in the ACT to protect the community and block the flow of illegal weapons to organised crime. NSW Police recently arrested a 34-year-old Gungahlin man in connection with the alleged supply of illegal firearms to Bandidos Outlaw Motorcycle Gang (OMCG) members, the alleged discharge of a semi-automatic firearm near the NSW/ACT border, and the alleged possession of prohibited drugs and ammunition. The ACT’s Firearms Act 1996 sets clear offences for unauthorised possession, use or supply of firearms. The Act also allows ACT Policing to seize weapons, cancel licences, and enforce proper storage. These powers are strong, yet the recent case shows the need for further action. The ACT still lacks a dedicated Firearm Prohibition Order (FPO) scheme, which is already used in other states. AFPA President Alex Caruana said FPOs would let police stop high-risk people, including organised crime figures, OMCG associates and those with violent histories, from accessing guns or ammunition. “Police would also be able to search a person, premise or vehicle without a warrant when an active FPO is in place against the person. This means that police could knock on their door and search for firearms, firearm parts or ammunition at any time. “The ACT remains an attractive base for outlaw motorcycle gangs because there are no FPOs, no anti-consorting laws and no ban on wearing gang colours in public. These gaps give OMCG’s room to operate. Firearms continue to fuel violence, drug supply and intimidation, and we need to make it harder for OMCG and organised crime to operate in the ACT,” Mr Caruana said. The AFPA is committed to working with the ACT Government to strengthen these laws, including advocating for FPOs, to ensure that dangerous individuals are denied access to weapons and that Canberra streets remain safe. Media Contact AFPA Media and Government Relations Manager Troy Roberts, (02) 6285 1677, troy.r@afpa.org.au

AFPA REJECTS COMMENTARY BY ACT GREENS LEADER AND INDEPENDENT MLA THOMAS EMERSON The Australian Federal Police Association rejects the characterisation made in a Facebook post circulating online by the Leader of the ACT Greens, Shane Rattenbury MLA. A similar post has also been made by Mr Thomas Emerson MLA. The contents of these provide a partial account of a complex incident and risks undermining trust in officers who acted in line with their training and the information available at the time. Police responded to a report of an armed and dangerous offender who had threatened the public. Officers must make rapid decisions in dynamic and uncertain conditions to protect life. They do not get the benefit of hindsight. They act on the facts at hand to keep the community safe. We support transparent review processes, and those processes are already in motion. We welcome fair scrutiny. We do not support public commentary that assumes misconduct before the facts are established. It places officers and their families under unfair pressure, is divisive, and inflames community tensions. The AFPA will continue to back members who act lawfully and in good faith. We urge community leaders to wait for the formal findings before making public statements about police conduct. Media Contact AFPA Media and Government Relations Manager Troy Roberts, (02) 6285 1677, troy.r@afpa.org.au

AFPA BACKS OFFICERS AFTER SWIFT RESPONSE TO WODEN KNIFE INCIDENT The Australian Federal Police Association strongly supports ACT Policing officers who acted quickly in response to a serious public safety threat in Woden on 12 November 2025. Officers responded to reports of an armed offender with a knife who had carried out an aggravated robbery and attempted several carjackings. A member of the public was injured during the incident and ACT Policing officers moved fast to protect the community. AFPA President Alex Caruana said the incident unfolded in a busy shopping centre and nearby streets. “Independent witnesses gave clear descriptions of a young person who matched the suspect’s build and clothing. Officers used that information to locate and briefly detain an individual on a public bus. “Their aim was simple, to stop any further harm in a crowded area. The individual was soon confirmed not to be the offender. Rapid checks of this kind are central to effective policing and put community safety first,” Mr Caruana said. The AFPA praised the officers for their judgement, who were responding to reports of an active armed offender who had already hurt a member of the public and frightened shoppers and motorists. Stopping the bus was a measured step to remove a possible threat to the many people nearby. The officers should be recognised for their courage, not criticised. Mr Caruana acknowledged the distress felt by the young person, his family and the passengers during the short detention. “ACT Policing has issued an apology, met with the family and local First Nations representatives and begun an independent review through the AFP Professional Standards with input from the ACT Ombudsman. These actions show a clear commitment to accountability and openness. “The incident highlights the realities of frontline policing. Officers often face immediate danger while still considering community impacts. “I urge the community and media to consider the broader context. Without the quick actions of the police, many more people could have been at risk,” Mr Caruana said. Police later arrested the actual offender in Ainslie that evening, and he faced court the next day. The AFPA remains firm in its support for the well-being of our members who work every day to keep Australians safe. Media Contact AFPA Media and Government Relations Manager Troy Roberts, (02) 6285 1677, troy.r@afpa.org.au