In April, Tasmania Police proudly introduced Poli, our first-ever community engagement van.
The introduction of Poli is in direct response to feedback received from the Tasmania Police Community Survey and recommendations from the Weiss Review and the Commission of Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse in Institutional Settings.
Poli is a mobile outreach service designed to build trust and strengthen connections with local communities across Tasmania, and reflects our commitment to being more visible, accessible and responsive, and to working together in partnership with communities to help keep children and vulnerable people safe.
Poli plays an important role in improving access to police services with the communities and community groups who need them most, including children, young people, members of the community who may not always feel safe or heard, or those who traditionally have had little or no opportunity to engage with Tasmania Police.
With Poli, we aim to:
- enhance community engagement – by creating opportunities for meaningful conversations between Tasmania Police and local communities
- improve access to services – by providing convenient, face-to-face interactions for all community members, including those in rural or remote areas, and individuals who prefer in-person communication
- support vulnerable communities – by collaborating with communities to share information and resources on important issues, such as child safety, and encouraging the reporting of concerns in a supportive environment.
Commissioner Adams at the launch of Poli, Tasmania Police’s community engagement van, in George Town, April 2025 — supporting connection and engagement with local communities.
Working together with communities
Working alongside partners like Neighbourhood Watch, PCYC, and Crime Stoppers, Poli and the community engagement team is available to attend various events, including school functions, community gatherings, and sporting events.
During these visits, officers are available to:
- discuss local crime issues
- provide general safety and crime prevention advice to residents and business owners
- share information about personal, residential, and business safety
- provide information and advice about child safety and safeguarding, online safety and community wellbeing
- tailor our engagement to meet the specific needs of each community or group.
The Poli webpage (police.tas.gov.au/programs/poli/) features details of our upcoming visits, photos from recent events, and a range of helpful resources, including a dedicated page with Online safety tips for children and young people.
Book Poli for your next community event!
If you're part of a community group, school, or organising an event and would like a visit from Poli, please submit a request through our online request form, available at: police.tas.gov.au/poli.