NCJ Number
196209
Journal
International Journal of Comparative and Applied Criminal Justice Volume: 26 Issue: 1 Dated: Spring 2002 Pages: 1-28
Date Published
2002
Length
28 pages
Annotation
This article explores the history and relationship of police and unions in Australia.
Abstract
The relationship between police and unions has been evolving from hostile confrontation to greater contingency planning, negotiation, and accommodation. As police have adopted the philosophy of community policing, the unions see their survival reliant on community support of their causes. The 1992 Associated Pulp and Paper Mill (APPM) and the 1998 national waterfront disputes highlight the potential for industrial disruption and the burden on police manpower and finances. European analysis advocates a “soft response” of the police and recommends training for police to handle public disorder with sensitivity. Police discretionary power is limited by law and allows certain capacity for maneuver. If compromise and negotiation fail, police can act decisively and forcefully to quell industrial unrest. Police resort to force when directed by court rulings to remove picket obstructions. Both police and unionists derive benefits from a flexible and non-confrontational strategy. Neither wants members injured, adverse media attention, or prolonged criminal litigation. Traditionally, the relationship between police and unions has been prone to hostility. The changing policing and union attitudes have complemented each other and attitudinal shifts have taken place through prescribed protocols of liaison officers, regular meetings, and standards of acceptable behavior. Industrial disputes are ultimately settled and police never determine the final outcome. The policing function attempts to provide time for conciliation to placate industrial conflict. Police in Australia seek to manage, rather than repress, the visible and symbolic union protests. The policing of the APPM and national waterfront disputes has revealed a more restrained, discriminatory, and low-key approach by police than in previous disputes. 23 notes, 48 references