Exhausted top cop takes six weeks off to recover 'both physically and mentally'

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This was published 6 years ago

Exhausted top cop takes six weeks off to recover 'both physically and mentally'

By Tammy Mills
Updated

Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton is taking sick leave, saying he is run down physically and mentally.

Mr Ashton said on Friday that he would take up to six weeks off to recover from a "fatigue-related" illness.

"Unfortunately, I have allowed myself to become run down, both physically and mentally and now need to take a short break to recover," he said.

"I have not had to manage a condition like this before but I expect to take approximately three to six weeks off duty."

Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton.

Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton.Credit: Chris Hopkins

It's understood Mr Ashton has not been diagnosed with an illness, but rather, he was told to take time out to prevent it developing into a condition like chronic fatigue syndrome.

He encouraged all members of the force to speak up when they are struggling with their mental health and get support early.

"I have been heartened to see this increasingly occurring across the force.

"In this regard it is important that I therefore walk the talk, and now take the necessary time to deal with my fatigue issues," he said.

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"I very much look forward to returning to work as soon as possible"

Police Association secretary Wayne Gatt said the move was a show of leadership.

"All of our members have demanding jobs and this open and genuine approach to personal wellbeing is something we should broadly encourage," Mr Gatt said.

Premier Daniel Andrews said it was an opportunity for Mr Ashton to recuperate and spend time with his family and come back refreshed.

"I wish him all the best."

Police Minister Lisa Neville said it had been an incredibly busy year in policing.

"I commend the Chief Commissioner for his integrity and honesty," Ms Neville said.

"His leadership and actions demonstrate the importance of rest and looking after one self, given the demands of the job. It sends a strong and supportive message to the members of Victoria Police."

Mr Ashton was appointed Chief Commissioner in July 2015, taking over from Ken Lay. He had always maintained he would not seek another term once his five years in the top job was up.

Mr Ashton has overseen the start of significant cultural shifts in the force, particularly around mental health.

He ordered a landmark mental health review, which found a "suck it up" culture in the force was creating a mental health crisis, and promised to implement its recommendations.

He has also been the voice of the force in the wake of harrowing tragedy, including the Bourke Street rampage.

Deputy commissioners Andrew Crisp and Shane Patton will act in Mr Ashton's place.

Last year, former police minister Wade Noonan took extended leave after being exposed to "unspeakable crimes and traumatic events", drawing praise from colleagues and mental health advocates.

For help, contact beyondblue 1300 224 636, beyondblue.org.au. Police officers current and former and their families can call Welfare Services confidentially.

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