Policing in War

What would be the challenges facing Australian police, should Australia find itself involved in an existential war for national survival? The globe is currently experiencing intense geo-strategic rivalries and changing international norms. The Australian Government has described this era as being the most complex set of strategic circumstances since the end of the Second World War. War isn't certain, but many nations (including Australia) are currently building up their military capabilities and equipment levels, just in case.This episode looks at Australian policing during the Second World War, and of Ukrainian policing in that nation's current defensive war against Russia, to identify what wartime policing could look like. Given the nature of modern war - especially  the use of long range missiles, drones as well as acts of sabotage to cause civilian chaos - Australian police could find themselves effectively in the front lines. Further, police operations in wartime are likely to be impacted by societal anxieties, staffing availability and issues surrounding the reliability of equipment. Professionalism, innovation, resilience and dedication to service, will be critical for the policing of a nation at war.The article that forms the basis of this episode -Total War: A Police Perspective - is in the March 2026 edition of the APJ. For more information, go to www.apjl.com.au. Host: Gerard DuttonInterviewee: Jason Byrnes APM