VicPol Returns Responsibility for Fitness Checks to Police, Not GPs
26 Feb 2026
The force will now take back responsibility for confirming applicants’ physical and mental suitability.
A Victoria Police spokesperson told newsGP the move comes after feedback from the RACGP, and the force is now “strengthening the physical and mental health assessment process.”
“GPs will get clear documentation showing that Victoria Police carries the ultimate responsibility for deciding whether an applicant is suitable for the job,” the spokesperson said. “We are also providing better guidance for GPs on what assessments involve, and applicants will need to confirm their medical history is accurate.”
The previous process, introduced last July without consultation with the RACGP, had put GPs in the position of deciding whether aspiring officers were medically and psychologically fit to serve. The RACGP raised concerns about safety, efficacy, and medico-legal risks, prompting discussions with the police.
RACGP Victoria Chair Dr Anita Muñoz said the shift is a welcome change. “Victoria Police agreed that GPs should not replace the force’s own thorough medical and psychological assessments,” she told newsGP. “GPs will now mainly help applicants understand their own suitability and identify if further testing is needed.”
For example, a recruit with asthma might need extra testing to ensure they can safely handle the demands of police work. Other medical conditions might also require further assessment before an applicant can be considered fit.
Dr Muñoz said updated guidance for GPs will be released soon, along with training through webinars and self-paced modules. She emphasised that GPs are not obliged to perform these assessments unless they feel confident and able to do so properly.
Victoria Police said involving an applicant’s own GP is still in everyone’s best interests and that the force will continue to work closely with the RACGP.
Source: newsGP, RACGP