ASSAULTS on police officers across the state have been recognised as 'unacceptable' by Parliament as those leaving the force for medical reasons rises.
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The latest NSW Police Annual Report outlined a total of 648 officers left the force over the 2018-2019 financial year period, with 304 of those deemed 'medically unfit'.
This was a stark jump from the 257 medically unfit, and 513 in total, recorded in the previous 12 months.
While those statistics reflect the entire state, president of the Police Association of NSW, Tony King, said it was reflective of every town, city or region, including the Riverina.
"Parliament has recognised that the assaults on police is both unacceptable and needs special attention," he said.
"The Committee on Law and Safety will be conducting an inquiry into assaults on police - which take place up to 50 times a week, on average, across the state - be that Wagga Wagga or Tweed Heads."
Just last month in Wagga, a probationary constable was threatened with a knife during his first week on duty. While physically unharmed, the incident supported concerns of the risks officers face on the job.
Mr King said that "being a police officer isn't like other jobs", making the pressure on staff all the more taxing.
"We take an oath of office to protect life and property," he said.
"That means we have to act even in dangerous situations."
According to the annual report, 120 of the 304 officers who left the force as medically unfit were ranked at sergeant level or higher, raising concerns over the experience remaining. But Mr King said he felt the skill sets of officers were not worrying.
"Naturally, new recruits have less experience, but that is being well managed," he said.
"They are well supported through the initial stages of their career, and work under an experienced officer until they display a high degree of competence."
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People leaving the force was also only an issue, in Mr King's opinion, if it was not well managed.
"Something like optional disengagement for some officers who want to or need to leave the force is important," he said.
"We have been fighting for that, so their service is recognised and they can leave with dignity and financial support."
To ensure the ongoing support of new recruits, and to avoid the trend in assaults on officers continuing, Mr King urged all relevant parties to speak up.
"The association is encouraging as many people as possible, including our members, to make personal submissions [to the inquiry]," he said. Submissions close on August 28.