Complaints data

The Authority receives about 2000 complaints each year.

In the year to 30 June 2009, the Authority received 1997 complaints - compared with 2076 complaints the previous year.

Number of complaints

Year to 30 June	2003	2004	2005	2006	2007	2008	2009
Number of complaints	1781	1956	1902	1741	2016	2073	1997

What were the complaints about?

The Authority classifies its complaints under 33 codes. In 2007/08, the most common complaints were over: neglect of duty; practices, policies and procedures; bad language or attitude; and use of physical force.

The Authority received:

• 14 reports of deaths associated with Police actions (including cell deaths and deaths during Police pursuits)
• 40 reports of serious bodily harm associated with Police actions
• 276 complaints about use of force
• 660 complaints over neglect of duty – for example, failure to investigate, failure to prosecute, failure to respond to an incident, or failure to provide appropriate medical assistance or food/water.

Investigations

During 2008/09, the Authority conducted independent investigations into 219 cases. Of those, 81 remained open at 30 June 2009.

Age of complaints

At 30 June 2009, the Authority had 30 complaints that were 12 months or older. That compares with 211 complaints 12 months or older at 30 June 2008 and 1611 complaints 12 months or older at 30 June 2007.