A WA parliamentary question seeks information on measures taken by WA Police to mitigate PTSD-related claims following a NSW Supreme Court decision. The response indicates a lack of awareness of the specific NSW case but highlights existing support services and a review of a relevant committee report.

AnsweredQoN 8760Legislative Assembly
Asked
26 September 2012
Portfolio
Police

QuestionView source ↗

I refer to the 2010 New South Wales Supreme Court decision in
Doherty v the State of NSW
, where a former police officer was awarded significant damages for post-traumatic stress disorder, and I ask:
(a) as a result of that decision, what additional measures, if any, were taken to insulate WA Police from similar claims arising here;
(b) did WA Police seek legal advice about this decision's implications from the State Solicitor; and
(c) if not, why not?

AnswerView source ↗

Answered
16 October 2012
Responded by
Minister for Police
Response time
20 days
The Western Australia Police was not aware of the NSW decision, however it is committed to providing its employees with the highest quality services that promote and enhance their physical, psychological and spiritual well-being. Health and Welfare Services are able to provide a variety of services in either a one-stop in house service or via access to an external Employee Assistance Program, including Peer Support, Psychological counselling, Vocational Rehabilitation, Welfare & Chaplaincy and Corporate Health.
Western Australia Police are currently reviewing the report from the Community Development & Justice Committee into the "Toll of Trauma on Western Australian Emergency Staff and Volunteers" and the recommendations that were made as a result.
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