Retired police returning to duty to fill officer shortages

When Margaret Lewis retired from the police force four-and-a-half years ago, she planned to spend time with her grandchildren and focus on her role as secretary of Police Veterans Victoria.

But those plans have been put on hold, for the time being at least.

The 68-year-old is one of hundreds of former officers who have applied to rejoin Victoria Police as reservists.

"I needed a further purpose in life for myself," Ms Lewis said.

"I really have a lot of time on my hands so I thought this is ideal.

"I retired earlier than I was planning to, so being able to work part time now is perfect."

Recruitment shortages

Ms Lewis is among 450 former officers to have applied to rejoin the force.

Victoria Police Acting Superintendent Ash Wigg said a further 600 former officers have also expressed interest in returning.

The police called for retired officers to return to help alleviate recruitment shortages that have been building since 2024.

Acting Superintendent Wigg said the amount of interest and applications was a great response.

"It just goes to show you the community never leaves you,"

he said.

Sending police officers back into the community

Due to recruitment shortages, current field officers are instead spending more time on administration and desk jobs, leaving the force with a lack of officers patrolling the community.

The reservists would take on these administrative roles and desk jobs — such as responding to inquiries, providing victims with early intervention, and triaging calls — allowing officers to get back in the field.

"The best place for our police is out keeping the community safe, not trapped behind a desk,"

Acting Superintendent Wigg said.

Former officers with at least two years' service in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom are eligible to apply.

Margaret is among the first batch of 25 reservists who are due to complete training at the end of the month.

Focus on regions

Acting Superintendent Wigg said reservists would be placed in stations closest to them, with a specific focus on regional towns including Bairnsdale, Wodonga, Mildura and Warrnambool.

Ms Lewis said she looked forward to returning to her old station in Caulfield where she spent most of her 43-year-long career.

"I have a lot of knowledge of the community in Caulfield, especially the Jewish community as I worked closely with them when I was on the force," she said.

"Not only am I looking forward to doing something purposeful, but I am also excited to be able to help with this great need in Victoria Police, to get them back to doing what they need to.

"I am actually quite excited, I think it will be great."

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