Arthur Andersen company to implement Police Dept changes

20/5/94

International management consultancy Arthur Andersen has been awarded the contract to work with the Police Department and Government to implement major changes to the department.

Police Minister Bob Wiese and Commissioner Brian Bull said the $1.58 million contract was expected to take a minimum of one and half years to complete.

"The Government has already agreed to fund the use of the outside consultants to work closely with the Police Department in effecting the changes as outlined in the recently released Scoping Report," Mr Wiese said.

"The company's specific brief is to assist the department to develop and implement improved management practices to create a more efficient and effective police service."

Mr Bull said that a number of the recommendations of the Scoping Report were already being implemented.

"Also consistent with the Scoping Report, the Government has made an immediate provision of $2.5 million for the purchase of vital equipment and refurbishment of police buildings and offices," Mr Bull said.

"Already, steps have been taken to purchase $1 million worth of computers, terminals, lap top PCs, printers, typewriters, whiteboards, telephones and radios which will go exclusively to operational areas."

The appointment of Arthur Andersen follows the calling of tenders in Western Australia, for which five were received.

These submissions were evaluated and ultimately the contract was awarded by the State Supply Commission.

"This is the beginning of an era of major change for the police service - a change which will prepare it for the 21st century," Mr Wiese said.

"I am sure the men and women of the service will take a positive approach to the process, as it is they - and the public of WA - who will benefit from what is about to happen."

Commissioner Bull said the department had a proud record of adapting to change.

"Much has already been achieved which places the department in an excellent position to further improve the service to the public," Mr Bull said.

"We need to continually adapt and respond to the expectations of the community we serve and this is an important milestone in that process."

Media contact: Brian Coulter (09) 222 9595 / (09) 481 2133, John Oakford  (09) 222 1504