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Joint Military Police Unit personnel will take on operational use of body-worn cameras as part of their standard policing ensemble from September this year.
Body-worn cameras (BWC) were successfully trialled in Queensland and used operationally across that state. The devices will now be operated by military police in Victoria, the Australian Capital Territory, Western Australia and the Northern Territory.
BWCs record audio and visual footage during policing interactions, providing an objective record of events and enhancing transparency, accountability and community trust in military police.
The technology is already widely used across civilian law enforcement agencies in Australia and internationally, and its adoption by Military Police aligns Defence with best-practice modern policing.
Provost Marshal – ADF Group Captain Terry Lewis said the rollout of BWCs supported a professional, respectful and safe environment for all personnel.
“BWCs provide an additional layer of assurance for both Military Police and the people they engage with,” GPCAPT Lewis said.
“They further enable interactions to be conducted fairly and respectfully and provide an accurate record in the event that incidents require review or are used in legal proceedings.
“Respectful interactions between Military Police and our community makes a positive contribution to Defence culture and accountability.
“BWCs are just one tool we can all use to strengthen our individual dedication to professionalism and living the Defence values.”
All Military Police members using BWCs have been trained in their lawful and appropriate use.
There are strict protocols in place to ensure recordings are managed in accordance with Defence privacy, data protection and legal requirements.
Personnel who interact with the Military Police from 1 September can expect their interactions to be recorded in accordance with established policy.
