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Kosciuszko Blizzard Rescue and ACT Ombudsman Findings Spotlight Police Accountability

Officers rebuked Kosciuszko trekkers for braving a severe blizzard ill-equipped

Australian Federal Police Commissioner Reece Kershaw, left, and ACT Chief Police Officer Scott Lee. Pictures by Sitthixay Ditthavong, Gary Ramage

Overview

  • An ACT ombudsman report concluded that the document itself did not erode trust in policing but that recorded instances of officer wrongdoing do
  • The report highlighted specific instances of unprofessional conduct that watchdogs say are damaging ACT Police’s reputation
  • New South Wales police airlifted two hikers from Kosciuszko National Park after they ventured into a blizzard unaware of its severity
  • Officers said the trekkers lacked proper clothing and equipment and failed to heed severe weather warnings
  • The events have underscored calls for tougher police accountability and enhanced outdoor safety awareness